Avian Flu Risk Still ‘Low’ After First US Patient Dies from H5N1 Virus: WHO
January 7, 2025
The World Health Organization (WHO) has assessed the risk of avian flu to humans as still “low” despite the first reported death of a person in the United States from the H5N1 virus.
The patient, a Colorado resident in their 60s, contracted the virus from close contact with infected poultry. They had underlying health conditions that may have contributed to the severity of their illness.
According to Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, “While the death of this patient is a reminder that avian flu can be fatal, the overall risk to human health remains low. We are closely monitoring the situation and working with global partners to prevent further spread.”
The WHO emphasized that the H5N1 virus does not spread easily from person to person. The majority of cases have occurred in people who have had close contact with infected poultry or birds.
To reduce the risk of infection, the WHO advises people to avoid contact with sick or dead poultry, wear appropriate protective gear when handling poultry, and cook poultry thoroughly before eating it.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also released guidance for healthcare providers and the public. The CDC recommends that people who develop flu-like symptoms after exposure to poultry or birds should seek medical attention immediately and inform their healthcare provider about their exposure.
The WHO and CDC are collaborating with national authorities to investigate the source of the infection and implement control measures to prevent further spread of the virus.
The WHO stated that the H5N1 virus is constantly evolving, and it is possible that the virus could mutate and become more transmissible to humans in the future. However, the organization stressed that there is no evidence that this has occurred at this time.
The WHO will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
Avian flu risk still ‘low’ after first US patient dies from H5N1 virus: WHO
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