Bird Flu Detected in Austin's Wastewater, But Human Risk Remains Low

Austin Public Health (APH): H5N1 detected in wastewater, but the threat to humans is still low. It doesn't indicate undetected human cases. Influenza in wastewater can come from other sources like birds, livestock, or infected animal secretions/excretions.

CDC Director Mindy Cohen: Avian flu is not a new virus; we've been studying and preparing for it for decades. Tests, vaccines, and treatments already exist. Current human risk is low, but we must stop the virus at its source - dairy and poultry farms.

Human Cases: 3 cases in the US linked to direct contact with diseased cows or poultry, including 1 in Texas.

CDC Report: 9,495 wild birds, 96 million poultry, 90 dairy herds infected, and 4 human cases. No wild birds infected in Central Texas counties.

H5N1 Transmission & Concerns: Public health officials concerned about human-to-human transmission, but it hasn't occurred. Antiviral medications effective against H5N1 available, and a national stockpile is in place. Vaccine production could be scaled up if needed.

Spread & Prevention: H5N1 spreads through contact with diseased animals or their droppings/bodily fluids. Prevent by avoiding contact with sick animals, practicing good hygiene, and following COVID-19 precaution.

Symptoms: Flu-like, including fever, cough, sore throat, respiratory issues, and in severe cases, hospitalization and death. Fatality rates in some outbreaks up to 50%. Seek medical attention if exposed to sick/dead animals and experiencing symptoms.

Original source:
https://www.statesman.com/story/news/health/2024/01/11/bird-flu-symptoms-central-texas-h5n1-wastewater-austin-public-health/4243560002/