The Louisiana Department of Health has confirmed that the patient who contracted highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) or H5N1 in the state has died. The 65-year-old patient, with underlying medical conditions, developed the disease after exposure to a backyard flock and wild birds.
According to LDH’s investigation, no additional H5N1 cases have been identified, and there is no evidence of person-to-person transmission. This patient remains the only human case in Louisiana.
The department expresses condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, as this will be the final update on the case due to patient confidentiality. While the public health risk for the general population remains low, those who work with birds or have recreational exposure are at higher risk.
To protect themselves and their families from H5N1 infection, people should avoid sources of exposure, including:
– Direct contact with wild birds and infected animals
– Touching sick or dead animals and their droppings
– Bringing sick wild animals into the home
It is also recommended to:
– Cook poultry, eggs, and other animal products to proper temperatures
– Avoid uncooked food products from infected animals
– Get seasonal flu vaccination if working on poultry or dairy farms
If you have been exposed to sick or dead birds or animals, report it to the USDA (1-866-536-7593) or the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry Diagnostic Lab (318-927-3441). Watch for respiratory symptoms or conjunctivitis after exposure and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms occur.
Source: https://ldh.la.gov/news/H5N1-death