Canada Records First Suspected Human Case of H5 Bird Flu in British Columbia
Canadian health officials announced the first suspected human case of H5 bird flu in Canada, involving a teenager in British Columbia. The teen, who is believed to have contracted the virus from an infected bird or animal, is receiving treatment at a children’s hospital, according to a provincial statement released Saturday.
Health Authorities Investigate Source of Infection
Authorities in British Columbia are currently investigating the exact source of the teen’s exposure and identifying close contacts. Health Minister Mark Holland emphasized that the risk to the general public remains low, reassuring Canadians on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.
“This is an unusual occurrence,” said British Columbia Health Officer Bonnie Henry. “We are conducting a thorough investigation to understand the specific source of exposure here in British Columbia.”
H5 Bird Flu Spreads in Animals Globally but Rarely Affects Humans
H5 bird flu, a virus primarily spread among wild birds, has recently led to outbreaks in both poultry and livestock across North America. Though human infections are rare, recent cases have been detected in U.S. poultry and dairy workers. So far, there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission of the virus. However, health experts warn that if the virus were to evolve and spread between people, it could spark a pandemic.
U.S. CDC Monitors Bird Flu Cases Among Farm Workers
In early November, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) began recommending testing for farm workers who have been exposed to infected animals, even if they show no symptoms. Since March, bird flu outbreaks have affected nearly 450 dairy farms in 15 U.S. states, leading to 46 confirmed human cases since April.
British Columbia Faces Bird Flu Outbreaks in Poultry and Wildlife
In Canada, British Columbia has identified at least 22 bird flu cases on poultry farms since October, with several wild birds also testing positive for the virus, the province reported. Health officials continue to monitor the situation and advise caution in areas with infected birds.
Monitoring and Prevention Efforts Continue to Mitigate Public Health Risks
Canada’s first presumptive human case of H5 bird flu highlights the importance of ongoing surveillance and preventive measures. Although the risk to the public is currently low, health authorities in Canada and the U.S. remain vigilant, aiming to prevent any further spread and safeguard public health.
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