The health authorities of the United States are on alert for a possible human contagion of avian flu, following the development of flu-like symptoms in seven people who were in contact with a patient diagnosed with this illness in Missouri.
This case has raised concerns about the possibility of human-to-human transmission, a phenomenon that could have significant implications for public health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that, so far, none of the seven individuals have tested positive for the bird flu virus.
However, researchers are conducting additional tests to determine if these individuals have antibodies against the virus that has affected birds and dairy cows in the country. This monitoring is crucial, as the avian flu virus has shown significant potential to mutate and adapt to new species.
Of the seven individuals affected, six are healthcare workers who had direct contact with the first US patient infected with bird flu.. This patient, who was hospitalized in early September, had not previously had known contact with sick birds nor had he been exposed to an environment where the virus was common.
The seventh individual is a close relative of the patient, raising questions about how the virus could have been transmitted. All those affected have presented mild respiratory symptoms, which, although it is a reason for surveillance, does not necessarily indicate a serious infection.
Patients exposed to avian flu
One health worker tested negative for bird flu, while the others were not tested for active infections. This was because they were not identified quickly enough to make an accurate diagnosis, highlighting the need for stricter surveillance in similar situations.
Additionally, the CDC reported that more than 100 healthcare workers were exposed to this patient during his hospitalization, which could increase the risk of infection.
Despite this situation, the CDC has assured that So far, no unusual patterns of flu activity have been observed in the general population, even in the state of Missouri. The agency continues to closely monitor data from influenza surveillance systems, particularly in states that have been hardest hit by avian flu.
To date, a total of 14 cases of bird flu have been reported in the United States in 2024, and authorities continue to investigate the source of the patient’s infection in Missouri.
Concern about bird flu has intensified in recent years, especially as the virus has begun to affect more animal species. and has shown an increase in its ability to infect mammals. In this context, surveillance and monitoring of possible infections between humans are essential to prevent a broader outbreak.
As CDC continues its work, the scientific community and the public at large remain alert to the possibility of a change in the transmission dynamics of the avian influenza virus. This underscores the importance of cooperation between public health authorities, medical professionals and the community to manage the situation and protect overall public health.
Health authorities in the United States are carrying out studies on seven people with flu symptoms after contact with a bird flu patient.
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