HPAI A(H5N1) virus infections in humans
A new publication in the New England Journal of Medicine examines the emergence and impact of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infections in humans and livestock in the United States, particularly from March to October 2024.
During this period, 46 human cases were reported, primarily linked to occupational exposure to infected poultry and dairy cows. Most cases were mild, with symptoms such as conjunctivitis and respiratory issues, and none required hospitalization or resulted in death. The study highlights the importance of monitoring and preventive measures to address the risk of animal-to-human transmission.
The A(H5N1) infections in humans were predominantly mild, with no severe illnesses or fatalities reported among the 46 cases.
Most patients experienced conjunctivitis and other mild symptoms. All but one case was associated with occupational exposure to infected animals, highlighting the risks faced by agricultural workers. Importantly, no evidence of human-to-human transmission was found among close contacts of infected individuals, indicating a low immediate risk of widespread transmission. While the current threat to the general public remains low, the study emphasizes the need for vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate potential future risks from avian influenza.
Unfortunately, following the data collection by the researchers, we encountered a severe case of H5N1 avian influenza in an individual in Louisiana.
