More human bird flu cases in U.S.; CDC urges calm, caution

The ongoing spread of bird flu in the United States is drawing increased attention as new cases emerge, with recent reports confirming human infections of Type A H5N1 influenza in multiple states.

A woman in Wyoming was diagnosed with bird flu, according to US media reports on Saturday. Health officials believe she was exposed to the H5N1 virus through direct contact with an infected poultry flock at her home.

Additionally, a farmer in Ohio has also contracted the virus.

According to the Associated Press, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that bird flu has been spreading under the radar, particularly among individuals in close contact with infected animals. Veterinarians and agricultural workers have been identified as high-risk groups.

Dr. Gregory Gray, an infectious disease researcher at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, warned that the actual number of human infections in the US is likely underestimated due to mild or asymptomatic cases going undetected. Many infected individuals may not realize they have contracted the disease, leading to underreporting.

Despite the growing number of infections, most human cases of bird flu in the U.S. have resulted in mild symptoms. However, Jacqueline Nolting, a researcher at Ohio State University, cautioned that while there is no immediate cause for alarm, concerns could escalate if the virus mutates and causes more severe symptoms.

The CDC has reported 68 confirmed human cases of bird flu in the U.S. Of these, 41 are linked to cattle exposure, while 23 originated from poultry farms and culling operations. One case was attributed to other animal exposure, and three cases came from unknown sources. In addition, eight probable cases are currently under investigation. Among all states, California has recorded the highest number of reported cases.

Beyond human infections, the virus continues to spread widely among animals. The CDC has confirmed that nearly 12,000 wild birds have tested positive for bird flu as of 11 February 2025. Outbreaks in poultry farms have affected over 159 million birds across 51 jurisdictions, underscoring the severity of the situation in the agricultural sector.

Additionally, 968 dairy herds have been impacted by bird flu, with outbreaks recorded in 16 states.

With the virus continuing to spread among animals and sporadic human cases being reported, health experts are closely monitoring the situation. While the risk to the general public remains relatively low, authorities are urging caution and vigilance, particularly in affected areas.