According to authorities, the deceased was an elderly person with multiple chronic illnesses. This strain had not previously been recorded in humans. A small number of domestic birds of various species were found at the scene. Information about family members is not being disclosed for privacy reasons.
Officials stated that the risk to the general public is minimal. "No positive tests have been found in people who had contact with the infected individual, and there is no evidence of virus transmission between people," the official statement said.
Bird flu has existed among birds for many years; however, in recent years it has increasingly affected mammals. In March 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported new strains of the virus found in mammals following significant outbreaks among birds.
According to the CDC, there have been at least 70 reported cases of human infection in the U.S. (not including the recent case in Washington). Infections most often occurred through interaction with infected livestock, at poultry farms, or during the disposal of animals. Most of the infected individuals experienced mild illness, but some exhibited more severe symptoms. In January, the first case of fatality from bird flu was recorded in an elderly person with serious health conditions.
