First Human Case of H5N5 Bird Flu Confirmed in the U.S. in Washington State

Health officials in Washington state have confirmed the first-ever human case of H5N5 bird flu in the United States. The patient, an older adult with underlying health conditions, was hospitalized in early November after developing symptoms including high fever and respiratory distress.

Laboratory testing identified the H5N5 strain, previously detected only in animals. Officials stress that the risk to the public remains very low. No identifying information about the patient has been released.

Authorities are investigating how the patient became infected. The individual keeps a mixed backyard flock of domestic poultry that had contact with wild birds, considered the most likely source of exposure. Public health teams are reaching out to anyone who may have been in close contact with the patient.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said it is closely monitoring the case. State epidemiologist Dr. Scott Lindquist emphasized that human-to-human transmission has never been observed with H5N5 and that officials are taking careful measures to prevent any risk.