Louisiana Confirms First U.S. Death From Bird Flu

The Louisiana Department of Health reported Monday that the patient who was hospitalized with the first case of avian influenza, bird flu, in Louisiana and the United States passed away.

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According to the LDH reports, the 65-year-old contracted H5N1 after being in contact with a non-commercial backyard flock and wild birds. A major concern for health officials and the general public is the risk of the virus spreading and more people contracting it from birds or each other.

The good news is that after further investigation, it was determined that there are no additional H5N1 cases or any evidence supporting that person to person transmission is possible. At this time the public health risk is low however people who work with poultry or cows remain at a higher risk.

LDH recommends avoiding sources of exposure such as:

• Avoid direct contact with wild birds
• Do not touch sick or diseased animals
• Do not touch wild animal droppings
• Keep pets away from sick or dead animals an their droppings
• Do not eat uncooked or undercooked foods
• Cook poultry and other animal products thoroughly
• Avoid unpasteurized raw milk or cheese from infected animals
• Poultry and dairy farm workers are urged to ask their providers about seasonal flu vaccinations. However, they will not prevent infection but only reduce the risk.
• Report dead or sick birds or animals to the USDA toll-free at 1-866-536-7593 or the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry Diagnostic Lab at 318-927-3441

"If you have been exposed to sick or dead birds or other animals or work on a farm where avian influenza has been detected, watch for respiratory symptoms or conjunctivitis. If you develop symptoms within 10 days after exposure to sick or dead animals, tell your healthcare provider that you have been in contact with sick animals and are concerned about avian influenza. This will help them give you appropriate advice on testing and treatment. Stay home and away from others while you have symptoms."

Read the full LDH report here.