Bird Flu Detected in Missouri Patient With No Known Exposure

What You Need to Know

* Missouri health officials have confirmed a case of the H5 flu virus in a patient with no known exposure to poultry. * The patient is currently hospitalized and receiving antiviral treatment. * Health officials are investigating the source of the infection and taking steps to prevent further spread.

Background

Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a virus that primarily affects birds. It can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected poultry or their bodily fluids. Most human cases of bird flu have been mild, but severe infections can occur.

Transmission

In most cases, bird flu is transmitted through direct contact with infected birds or their bodily fluids. This can occur through activities such as: * Handling live birds * Cleaning chicken coops * Eating raw or undercooked poultry products However, the case in Missouri is the first known instance of human infection without direct exposure to poultry. This suggests that the virus may be evolving and becoming more transmissible to humans.

Symptoms

Symptoms of bird flu can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Mild cases may cause symptoms similar to the common cold, such as: * Fever * Cough * Sore throat * Muscle aches Severe infections can lead to pneumonia, respiratory failure, and even death.

Treatment

There are antiviral medications that can be used to treat bird flu. These medications are most effective when started early in the course of the infection.

Prevention

The best way to prevent bird flu is to avoid contact with infected birds or their bodily fluids. This includes: * Washing your hands thoroughly after handling poultry * Cooking poultry to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit * Avoiding contact with wild birds

Outlook

The prognosis for bird flu depends on the severity of the infection. Mild cases typically resolve within a few days, while severe infections can be fatal.

Resources for More Information

* [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Bird Flu](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/index.htm) * [World Health Organization: Avian Influenza](https://www.who.int/influenza/avian_influenza/en/)