
CDC urges enhanced H5N1 testing as avian flu cases rise, prompting concerns about potential spread.
At a Glance
- CDC confirms second U.S. case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) virus
- Patient in Texas exposed to infected dairy cattle, showing only eye redness as a symptom
- CDC recommends faster testing and subtyping for hospitalized influenza A patients
- Risk to general public remains low, but vigilance is emphasized
- 67 human cases of bird flu reported since 2022, with 66 occurring in 2024
CDC Confirms New H5N1 Case in Texas
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed a new case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) virus in the United States. This marks the second reported case of H5N1 in the country, following the first instance in Colorado in 2022. The patient, who had exposure to dairy cattle in Texas presumed to be infected with HPAI A(H5N1), exhibited only eye redness as a symptom and is currently recovering with antiviral treatment.
Despite this new case, the CDC maintains that the risk to the general public remains low. However, people with close, unprotected exposure to infected animals or contaminated environments are at higher risk of contracting the virus. The CDC is collaborating with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and local health authorities to monitor the situation and conduct ongoing investigations.
In response to the increasing number of avian flu cases, the CDC is recommending faster and more thorough testing of hospitalized influenza A patients. This accelerated “subtyping” process aims to differentiate between seasonal flu and bird flu more quickly, improving patient care and ensuring timely infection control measures.
The goal of these enhanced testing protocols is to prevent delays in identifying bird flu infections, particularly in intensive care units where comprehensive subtyping can significantly reduce the time needed for correct diagnosis. This approach is crucial for boosting patient care efficiency and strengthening systemic infection controls.
Avian Flu Spread and Precautions
H5 bird flu is currently widespread among wild birds in the U.S. and globally, affecting poultry and mammals. In March 2024, HPAI was first reported in dairy cows in Texas and Kansas, with unpasteurized milk and throat swabs from cattle testing positive for HPAI A(H5) viruses. The USDA has also confirmed HPAI in a Michigan dairy herd that received cows from Texas.
“This infection does not change the H5N1 bird flu human health risk assessment for the U.S. general public, which CDC considers to be low,” the CDC said in a statement.
While the commercial milk supply is considered safe due to pasteurization, which inactivates viruses, the CDC emphasizes the risks of consuming unpasteurized milk. The agency recommends avoiding unprotected exposure to sick or dead animals and contaminated materials. People exposed to infected animals should be monitored for symptoms for 10 days.
As the situation evolves, the CDC stresses the importance of continued surveillance and preparedness efforts. Current FDA-approved flu antiviral medications are believed to be effective against these viruses, and Candidate Vaccine Viruses (CVVs) are available for manufacturing if necessary. The changing nature of influenza viruses necessitates ongoing vigilance and adaptability in response strategies.
Let’s hope this doesn’t morph into another 2020 situation…