Simran Joshi
CDC Investigates Source of Bird Flu Infection in Missouri Patient
The CDC has reported a case of bird flu in a Missouri patient who had no known contact with poultry or dairy cows. Despite the lack of a clear source of infection, the patient developed symptoms such as chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness. These symptoms were not initially linked to influenza, but a flu test later confirmed the infection. The patient was treated with antiviral medication and has since recovered.
During the investigation, the CDC also noted that a close household contact of the patient experienced symptoms around the same time but was not tested for influenza. This contact has also recovered, and the CDC has emphasized that the simultaneous development of symptoms does not indicate person-to-person transmission. Public health officials are conducting more detailed interviews to identify any potential exposure to wild birds or raw dairy products.
No Evidence of Human-to-Human Transmission Detected
CDC officials maintain that there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission in this case. A second close contact, a healthcare worker, developed mild symptoms but tested negative for influenza, further suggesting that the virus has not spread beyond the original patient. The CDC continues to monitor the situation closely and has not changed its risk assessment, stating that the risk to the general population remains low.
In Missouri, health officials have also reported cases of the virus in commercial poultry, backyard flocks, and wild birds. However, there have been no cases of bird flu infections in dairy cattle in the state. The CDC is also looking for any changes in the H5N1 virus that might indicate an increased potential for human-to-human spread, but none have been found so far.
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