In a concerning development, four agricultural workers in Washington state have tested positive for the H5N1 bird flu virus—the first reported human cases in the state. The Washington State Department of Health confirmed that the individuals were exposed to the virus while handling infected poultry at a commercial egg farm in Franklin County.
The affected workers experienced mild symptoms, including eye irritation and mild respiratory discomfort, and have since been treated with antiviral medication, according to the Department of Health. These symptoms align with those commonly associated with avian flu in humans, as noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Following the confirmation of the virus, approximately 800,000 birds at the infected farm were euthanized as a precautionary measure. The Washington State Department of Agriculture first reported the avian influenza outbreak on October 15.
Washington is now the sixth state in the U.S. to report human infections of avian flu, joining California, Texas, Michigan, Colorado, and Missouri. This recent case raises the national total to at least 31 confirmed human cases linked to the H5N1 virus across these states.
“Washington has been closely monitoring the spread of H5N1 since it was first detected in poultry in 2022," said Dr. Umair Shah, Washington's Secretary of Health. "Our state is prepared with the knowledge and tools needed to reduce the impact on our community."
To further investigate the situation, the CDC announced on Tuesday that a federal team would be dispatched to Washington. Although the public health risk remains low at this time, state officials urge caution. Washington State Veterinarian Dr. Amber Itle emphasized the potential for the virus to spread if not controlled. "The longer this virus circulates among animals, the greater the risk that it could mutate and become a global health threat," Itle warned.
Currently, the H5N1 virus is not capable of spreading between humans. However, it can spread from wild birds to poultry and livestock through contact with contaminated droppings or saliva. In the ongoing outbreak, the virus has affected more than 103 million birds nationwide and impacted poultry operations in 48 states. Additionally, around 330 dairy herds have reported cases of avian flu.
As health officials continue to monitor the situation, they encourage those working closely with animals to take preventive measures and remain vigilant. For more information on the current bird flu outbreak and guidance for at-risk workers, the CDC website offers the latest updates.
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