LOS ANGELES, California – The U.S. has reported its first severe human case of bird flu, as a Louisiana resident is hospitalized in critical condition after suspected contact with infected backyard poultry. Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on Wednesday as the H5N1 virus continues ravaging dairy cattle and infecting farm workers.
First Severe Human Case in Louisiana
The Louisiana Department of Health confirmed that the patient, who is over the age of 65 and has underlying medical conditions, is suffering from severe respiratory illness. The patient’s infection is linked to backyard, non-commercial poultry, marking the first case in the U.S.
“This case highlights an increased health risk from bird flu,” said Demetre Daskalakis, CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases director. While most U.S. human cases have resulted in mild symptoms like eye redness or conjunctivitis, the Louisiana case underscores the virus’s potential for severe illness, particularly in high-risk populations.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that the virus affecting the Louisiana patient belongs to the D1.1 genotype, recently detected in wild birds and poultry in the U.S., Canada, and Washington. This genotype differs from the B3.13 strain infecting dairy cattle and workers in other states.
California Declares State of Emergency
California, the nation’s largest milk-producing state, is grappling with a severe bird flu outbreak. According to federal data, over 60% of its dairy herds—649 in total—have tested positive for H5N1 since late August. The virus has spread from the Central Valley to Southern California, with four dairies testing positive on December 12, prompting Governor Newsom’s emergency declaration.
The declaration aims to expedite the state’s response by streamlining staffing, contracting, and monitoring efforts. “This shift from regional containment to statewide monitoring and response is necessary to curb the spread,” Newsom said.
The National Bird Flu Crisis
Since the outbreak began in 2022, bird flu has infected over 860 dairy herds across 16 states, killing 123 million poultry and leaving significant economic and public health concerns in its wake. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has responded with a national bulk milk bird flu testing program covering 13 states, representing nearly half of the nation’s milk supply.
While bird flu still poses a low risk to the general public, the CDC has reported 61 human cases nationwide since April, primarily among dairy farm workers exposed to infected cattle and poultry.
A Call for Vigilance and Support
This latest outbreak serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in monitoring and controlling the virus. Public health officials urge farmers and poultry owners to cooperate with testing and containment measures to prevent further spread.Our thoughts are with the families affected by this crisis. If you or someone you know has been impacted by contaminated food products or workplace negligence, contact us for free legal advice. Our team can review your case and guide you through the next steps to secure justice and compensation.
