First Avian Flu Death Reported: Concerns Rise Amidst Pandemic Fears
Louisiana’s first human case of H5N1 avian influenza resulted in the death of a patient over 65 with underlying health conditions following exposure to backyard and wild birds. No further H5N1 cases or person-to-person transmission have been identified. While the overall public health risk remains low, individuals handling birds, poultry, or livestock face a higher risk of infection. The public is urged to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and report any such findings to the appropriate authorities.
John Q. Hosedrinker