First Human Case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Flu Detected in Texas After Contact with Infected Dairy Cattle
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) issued a health alert after confirming the first human case of the novel avian influenza A(H5N1) in the state.
The infected individual fell ill after coming into contact with dairy cows believed to be carrying the avian flu, with conjunctivitis being the primary symptom reported. This incident marks only the second time the avian influenza A(H5N1) virus has been identified in a human in the United States.
The case is linked to recent findings of the virus in dairy cows, as announced by the Texas Animal Health Commission.
In March 2024, testing for influenza was conducted on several animals in Texas and Kansas due to signs of illness.
