Washington resident hospitalized with virus never before seen in humans
A Washington state resident has been hospitalized with a severe illness caused by a strain of bird flu never before confirmed in humans. The patient, an older adult with underlying health conditions, was admitted in early November with symptoms including high fever, confusion, and breathing difficulties.
Laboratory tests identified the virus as H5N5, a strain previously detected in animals but not in humans. All prior confirmed human cases have involved the H5N1 strain. This development demonstrates the virus’s unpredictable evolution, though there is no evidence that H5N5 is more infectious or dangerous than other avian flu strains.
This case is the first human bird flu infection recorded in the United States in eight months and the first in Washington state this year. Since the outbreak began in 2022, the US has recorded 71 human cases and one death.
Health officials emphasize that the risk to the general public remains low. The patient had exposure to domestic and wild birds, owning a backyard flock where two birds recently died from an unknown illness.
The virus typically spreads through contact with infected bird saliva, droppings, or carcasses. Health authorities have tested individuals who had contact with the patient and found no further infections.
Experts note that while this single case is concerning, it likely represents a rare transmission event. However, virologists warn that the emergence of a new strain requires careful monitoring and investigation.
Bird flu is currently widespread in US wild birds and poultry. Health agencies continue to monitor the situation closely, but maintain that the overall public health risk remains low.
