Post by Nadica (She/Her) on Sept 29, 2024 0:39:24 GMT
Missouri investigates more possible human-to-human H5N1 avian flu spread - Published Sept 27, 2024
By Stephanie Soucheray, MA
Today the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said investigators in Missouri were looking into eight possible human infections of H5N1 avian flu virus after the state reported its first case last month. If confirmed, the cases would mark the first instance of human-to-human H5N1 transmission in the country.
At least one household member and six healthcare workers who encountered the index case-patient are being investigated after showing symptoms of viral infection. A week ago, the CDC noted that only two healthcare workers who had contact with the Missouri patient had symptoms.
So far 14 human H5N1 cases have been reported in the United States this year, most all but one in agricultural workers who were in close contact with infected cattle. All patients have recovered, but the Missouri patient was hospitalized for his or her illness.
Healthcare contact before droplet precautions
Some of the healthcare workers came into contact with the Missouri patient before droplet protocols were in place. Though symptoms have now resolved, the CDC said they would use antibody tests to determine if any of the healthcare workers had the virus.
"Results of serology testing at CDC on the positive case and their previously identified household contact are still pending," the CDC said. "To date, only one case of influenza A(H5N1) has been detected in Missouri. No contacts of that case have tested positive for influenza A(H5N1)."
By Stephanie Soucheray, MA
Today the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said investigators in Missouri were looking into eight possible human infections of H5N1 avian flu virus after the state reported its first case last month. If confirmed, the cases would mark the first instance of human-to-human H5N1 transmission in the country.
At least one household member and six healthcare workers who encountered the index case-patient are being investigated after showing symptoms of viral infection. A week ago, the CDC noted that only two healthcare workers who had contact with the Missouri patient had symptoms.
So far 14 human H5N1 cases have been reported in the United States this year, most all but one in agricultural workers who were in close contact with infected cattle. All patients have recovered, but the Missouri patient was hospitalized for his or her illness.
Healthcare contact before droplet precautions
Some of the healthcare workers came into contact with the Missouri patient before droplet protocols were in place. Though symptoms have now resolved, the CDC said they would use antibody tests to determine if any of the healthcare workers had the virus.
"Results of serology testing at CDC on the positive case and their previously identified household contact are still pending," the CDC said. "To date, only one case of influenza A(H5N1) has been detected in Missouri. No contacts of that case have tested positive for influenza A(H5N1)."