
The CDC urges rapid testing for H5N1 as avian flu cases rise in the U.S., prompting concerns about potential outbreaks and public health safety.
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At a Glance
- A person in Texas tested positive for H5N1 after exposure to infected dairy cattle
- This is the second reported human case of H5N1 in the U.S.
- CDC recommends faster subtyping of flu A to differentiate between seasonal and bird flu
- Risk to the general public remains low, but vigilance is crucial
- Commercial milk supply is considered safe due to pasteurization
CDC Confirms H5N1 Case in Texas
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) virus in an individual from Texas. The patient, who had been exposed to dairy cattle presumed to be infected with H5N1, exhibited only eye redness as a symptom and is currently recovering with antiviral treatment. This marks the second reported case of H5N1 in the United States, following the first case in Colorado in 2022.
While human infections with avian influenza viruses are rare, they have occurred sporadically worldwide. The CDC maintains that the risk to the general public remains low, but emphasizes that people with close, unprotected exposure to infected animals or contaminated environments are at higher risk.
Increased Surveillance and Testing
In response to the rising number of H5N1 cases, the CDC is recommending faster and more thorough testing of hospitalized influenza A patients. This accelerated “subtyping” process aims to differentiate between seasonal flu and bird flu, preventing delays in identifying avian flu infections and improving patient care.
“CDC recommends a shortened timeline for subtyping all influenza A specimens among hospitalized patients and increasing efforts at clinical laboratories to identify non-seasonal influenza. To prevent delays in identifying human infections with avian influenza A(H5N1) viruses, clinicians and laboratorians are reminded to test for influenza A-positive specimens from hospitalized patients, particularly those in an intensive care unit (ICU).,” the CDC said in a statement.
The emphasis on rapid testing is particularly crucial given the recent spread of H5N1 among dairy cattle. In March 2024, HPAI was first reported in dairy cows in Texas and Kansas, with unpasteurized milk and throat swabs from cattle testing positive for HPAI A(H5) viruses. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has also confirmed HPAI in a Michigan dairy herd that received cows from Texas.
Public Health Measures and Recommendations
While the CDC maintains that the risk to the general public is low, they are collaborating with USDA, FDA, and local health authorities for ongoing monitoring and investigation. The agency recommends avoiding unprotected exposure to sick or dead animals and contaminated materials. People who have been exposed to infected animals should be monitored for symptoms for 10 days.
Regarding the safety of the milk supply, the FDA and USDA have stated, “According to FDA and USDA, there are not [sic] concerns with the safety of the commercial milk supply at this time because products are pasteurized before entering the market.”
However, the CDC emphasizes the risks associated with consuming unpasteurized milk.
As the situation evolves, the CDC stresses the importance of continued surveillance and preparedness efforts due to the changing nature of influenza viruses. Current FDA-approved flu antiviral medications are believed to be effective against these viruses, and Candidate Vaccine Viruses (CVVs) are available for manufacturing if necessary.