Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) today urged the public to take precautions around wild birds after a patient in Louisiana was hospitalized with a severe case of bird flu.
This is the first time a severe illness from the virus has been reported in the United States.’
Comal County spokesperson Cary Zayas said only one case of bird flu has been reported in Texas, and it was a mild case. Several months ago, a person contracted the virus while working on a cattle truck in the Texas panhandle.
“We are at very low risk, she said.
The announcement was one of several statements issued by public health departments around the country today.
Galveston County, south of Houston, confirmed its first positive case of Avian Influenza (H5N1) in a bird whose erratic behavior was reported to animal control on Dec. 5.
The bird died shortly after arrival at Texas City Animal Control and was sent to DSHS in Austin, where testing confirmed the presence of H5N1, Galveston County Health District said.
Two animal control officers who responded to the incident started experiencing symptoms but rapid tests and further testing confirmed negative results.
California today declared an emergency over bird flu in cattle and the state of Wisconsin reported its first presumptive positive human case in a person exposed to an infected flock of commercial poultry.
“Bird flu” is a viral infection that spreads primarily among birds but can infect humans and other animals. Influenza A (H5N1), the most common strain affecting humans, can cause severe respiratory symptoms.
DSHS said people should avoid contact with wild birds, especially if they look sick or are dead. Do not touch bird droppings, feathers or nests.
Wash hands thoroughly after being around birds.
Anyone who has close contact with backyard flocks, wild birds, or sick or dead animals should wear protective gear. Do not touch surfaces or materials that have saliva, mucus or droppings from wild birds.
For more information from DSHS click here.
(Editor’s Note: This story will be updated as further information becomes available.)
