BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — The Louisiana Department of Health has reported the first human case of bird flu (H5N1) in a person in the state. A person from southwestern Louisiana is hospitalized after exposure to sick and dead birds suspected of having the virus.

According to state health officials, H5N1 is a virus that causes severe respiratory illness in birds. Outbreaks in wild birds and poultry have been reported since 2022 in the U.S.

"While the current public health risk for the general public is low, people who work with birds, poultry or cows, or have recreational exposure to them, are at higher risk," the agency said.

According to LDH, 60 human cases have been reported nationwide as of Dec. 13, all linked to contact with infected animals. No human-to-human transmission has occurred in the U.S.

"The best way to protect yourself and your family from H5N1 is to avoid sources of exposure. That means avoiding direct contact with wild birds and other animals infected with or suspected to be infected with bird flu viruses," LDH said.

How to protect yourself

• Avoid contact with sick or dead birds or animals.
• Keep pets away from dead animals.
• Always cook poultry, eggs, and animal products thoroughly.
• Avoid raw or unpasteurized dairy products from infected animals.
• Farm workers should consider seasonal flu vaccines to lower risks of co-infection.

What to do if exposed

• Watch for symptoms like respiratory issues or eye irritation within 10 days of exposure.
• Inform your doctor if you suspect bird flu exposure to ensure proper care.
• Stay home if you develop symptoms.

Health officials said dead or sick birds or animals can be reported to the USDA toll-free at 1-866-536-7593 or the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry Diagnostic Lab at 318-927-3441.

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