QUICK SUMMARY
A Washington resident died after contracting the world’s first case of a rare bird flu strain. The individual, an older adult with underlying health conditions, had been hospitalized for weeks. Health officials monitor others exposed to the person's backyard flock, but the public risk remains low.
A Washington resident succumbed to the world’s first confirmed case of a rare bird flu strain in Grays Harbor County. The state Department of Health reported that the deceased, an older adult with underlying health conditions, had been hospitalized for weeks prior to their death. Health officials are monitoring individuals who were in contact with the person's backyard flock of mixed domestic birds. Although this case raises concerns, the DOH reassured that no additional cases have emerged, maintaining that the public risk remains low. Human-to-human transmission of bird flu is extremely rare and has not been recorded in the United States. Recent testing by Whatcom County Health officials found avian influenza in wild birds near Wiser Lake, which emphasizes the need for caution. The department advises the public to avoid contact with sick birds or wildlife. This incident highlights the ongoing vigilance required in monitoring avian influenza outbreaks.