A man in Washington state has passed away after contracting a rare form of bird flu, making him the first known individual to be affected by the H5N5 avian influenza virus. The same strain has been identified in birds in the UK, with recent outbreaks reported in Norfolk, Lincolnshire, Kent, and Cumbria.
Health officials revealed that the man, described as older with underlying health issues, was hospitalized due to severe flu-like symptoms such as high fever, respiratory problems, and confusion. Although the exact source of his infection remains unclear, it is believed that his backyard poultry, which had contact with wild birds, may have played a role.
This incident marks the first documented case of a human contracting the H5N5 influenza virus. The NHS advises that symptoms of bird flu typically manifest within four to six days of exposure to an infected bird, ranging from mild to severe, including respiratory distress and fever.
If experiencing bird flu symptoms, individuals are urged to contact medical services promptly. Severe breathing difficulties warrant an emergency call to 999. The NHS reassures that human-to-human transmission of avian flu is highly improbable, as the virus is primarily transmitted through close contact with infected birds.
Preventative measures against bird flu include regular handwashing and avoiding contact with birds in regions where the virus is prevalent. The NHS emphasizes that while bird flu can be fatal, cases in the UK are rare.