Ohio has reported its first human case of bird flu, according to the state’s health department. The case involves a farm worker from Mercer County who came into contact with infected poultry.
Since January 1, 2024, there have been 68 confirmed cases of bird flu in 11 states, including one death in Louisiana. Despite this, the risk of contracting bird flu remains low for Ohioans.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the majority of cases were linked to commercial dairy farms and poultry operations. The virus can be spread through contact with infected animals, contaminated objects, or by inhaling or eating contaminated materials.
Symptoms of bird flu include pink eye, fever, fatigue, cough, muscle aches, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stuffy or runny nose, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, and headaches. Pneumonia requiring hospitalization is also a possible complication.
To avoid infection, the CDC recommends avoiding contact with sick or dead animals, especially wild birds or poultry. Those who have contact with infected materials should wear personal protective equipment (PPE) provided by their employer at no cost.
The current outbreak of bird flu affects around 157.8 million poultry in all 50 states since 2022. Dairy cows in 16 states have also been affected, with 968 herds reported as of March 2024.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2025/02/13/bird-flu-ohio-first-human-case/78510403007