By Blake Jackson
Wisconsin health officials have confirmed the state’s first human case of avian flu, a highly contagious virus primarily affecting birds. The case, identified in Barron County, involves an employee at a commercial turkey farm that had been infected. Although the individual experienced mild symptoms, including a sore throat, slight fever, fatigue, and eye discharge, they are expected to recover after receiving treatment with oseltamivir, an antiviral medication commonly used for influenza.
State health officials are monitoring 19 people who may have been exposed to the infected farm, with two individuals already tested. However, there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission of the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is conducting additional tests to confirm the case. To date, 61 human cases of avian flu have been reported across the United States, with the majority involving farm workers, particularly in poultry farming.
Health officials are still investigating why this year’s avian flu strain is affecting humans, as prior outbreaks did not result in significant human infections. Dr. Angie Maxted, a public health veterinarian at the Department of Health Services (DHS), noted that contact tracing is underway to alert those who may have been exposed and advised them to monitor for any symptoms.
In addition to the human case, Wisconsin has also confirmed a new avian flu case in a backyard poultry flock in Kenosha County. While the virus continues to circulate among wild birds and domestic flocks in neighboring states, no cases of avian flu have been reported in Wisconsin’s dairy cows.
The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has urged all poultry and dairy producers to implement strict biosecurity measures, including wearing protective gear and limiting visitors. Officials also recommend avoiding contact with sick or dead birds to minimize the risk of infection.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-wikoski
Categories: Wisconsin, Livestock, Poultry