A second instance of bird flu in humans has been detected amidst an outbreak affecting birds and cows across the United States.
The individual, employed on a dairy farm in Michigan, had regular contact with livestock carrying the H5N1 virus, according to authorities.
Similar to the first case reported in Texas less than two months ago, both patients experienced only mild symptoms and have since recovered.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that the risk to the general public remains low. The Michigan patient, like the individual in Texas, exhibited symptoms primarily in the eyes, a common occurrence in cases of avian flu infection in humans.
The confirmation of the infection was based on a sample obtained from the person’s eye, with respiratory samples testing negative. This aspect was described by a CDC representative during a briefing on Wednesday as “reassuring”, suggesting a reduced risk of respiratory transmission of the virus.
Despite its name, the virus extends beyond birds and has been identified in cows across multiple states in recent months. While avian flu typically proves fatal for poultry, its impact on cattle has been less severe. Although the virus rarely infects humans, isolated cases have been reported globally.
The Texas incident occurred earlier this spring amidst the current outbreak in the United States. Michigan state authorities urge farm workers with any exposure to affected animals to report even mild symptoms promptly. The CDC anticipates the possibility of additional human cases due to the “high levels” of the H5N1 virus present in raw milk and among cows. However, the risk to the general public remains low as long as human infections remain sporadic and do not spread from person to person.
The CDC emphasizes that individuals with prolonged exposure to infected birds or animals, or their environments, face a greater infection risk. It recommends minimizing contact with sick or deceased animals, their waste, bedding, unpasteurized milk, or any contaminated surfaces. Additionally, the agency provides tailored guidance for various groups, including poultry and livestock farmers, regarding personal protective equipment (PPE) usage.