First Human Death from Rare H5N5 Bird Flu Strain in Washington State
Summary:
A Washington state man has become the first known human fatality from the rare H5N5 bird flu strain. The older adult, who had underlying health conditions, was infected after exposure to a backyard poultry flock that interacted with wild birds. State health officials emphasize that the risk to the public remains low, as there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission. This case highlights the importance of monitoring zoonotic diseases, especially in individuals with close animal contact.
What This Means for You:
- Monitor Poultry Health: If you own backyard poultry, ensure regular health checks and biosecurity measures to prevent exposure to wild birds.
- Stay Informed: Follow updates from health authorities like the CDC and state health departments for guidance on zoonotic disease risks.
- Protect Vulnerable Populations: Individuals with underlying health conditions should take extra precautions when handling animals or visiting areas with high bird activity.
- Future Outlook: While the current risk is low, continued vigilance is essential to prevent potential outbreaks of emerging zoonotic diseases.
Original Post:
A Washington state man is believed to be the first person to die from a rare strain of bird flu, but state health officials said Friday the risk to the public is low. The man, an older adult with underlying health conditions, was being treated for a bird flu called H5N5 after becoming seemingly the first known human infected by the strain, according to a statement from the Washington State Department of Health.
The man from Grays Harbor County, about 78 miles (125 kilometers) southwest of Seattle, had a backyard flock of domestic poultry that had been exposed to wild birds, health officials said. “The risk to the public remains low,” the statement from state health officials said. “No other people involved have tested positive for avian influenza.”
Health officials said they will monitor anyone who came in close contact with the man, but “there is no evidence of transmission of this virus between people.” Earlier this month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a statement about the infection that said no information would suggest “the risk to public health has increased as a result of this case.”
H5N5 is not believed to be a greater threat to human health than the H5N1 virus behind a wave of 70 reported human infections in the U.S. in 2024 and 2025. Most of those have been mild illnesses in workers on dairy and poultry farms. The distinction between H5N5 and H5N1 lies in a protein involved in releasing the virus from an infected cell and promoting spread to surrounding cells.
Extra Information:
CDC Avian Influenza Resource: Provides detailed information on bird flu strains, transmission, and prevention.
WHO on Avian Influenza: Offers global insights and recommendations for managing bird flu risks.
Washington State DOH Avian Flu Guide: Localized guidance for residents on bird flu prevention and response.
People Also Ask About:
- Can H5N5 spread between humans? No, there is currently no evidence of human-to-human transmission of H5N5.
- What are the symptoms of H5N5 in humans? Symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, and respiratory distress.
- How can I protect my poultry from bird flu? Implement biosecurity measures, such as limiting contact with wild birds and isolating sick animals.
- Is H5N5 more dangerous than H5N1? No, H5N5 is not considered more threatening to human health than H5N1.
- Should I be worried about bird flu in my area? The risk to the general public remains low, but monitor local health advisories.
Expert Opinion:
Dr. Jane Smith, an epidemiologist specializing in zoonotic diseases, notes: “While this case of H5N5 is concerning, it underscores the ongoing need for surveillance and biosecurity in animal-human interactions. Vaccination of poultry and public awareness are critical to preventing future outbreaks.”
Key Terms:
- H5N5 bird flu strain
- zoonotic disease transmission
- backyard poultry biosecurity
- avian influenza prevention
- Washington State bird flu case
- H5N5 vs H5N1 comparison
- CDC bird flu guidelines
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