Washington Man Thought to be First to Die from Rare Strain of Bird Flu

Washington state health officials report the first known human death from the H5N5 bird flu, involving an older adult with pre-existing conditions who kept backyard poultry. The infection likely originated from exposure to wild birds.

 

Authorities emphasize that the risk to the public remains low, noting no evidence of human-to-human transmission and that close contacts are being monitored. While H5N5 is distinct from H5N1, it shares similar potential complications, including high fever, respiratory illness, and, in severe cases, pneumonia. The CDC and state health agencies continue to monitor avian influenza cases to guide prevention and early intervention efforts. Read more from The Independent here.