19.02.2025 US
1092 day since the barbaric invasion of Ukraine

A rare case of bird flu infection in a human recorded in the UK

A case of influenza A(H5N1) in a human has been confirmed for the first time in the West Midlands region, linked to contact with infected birds on a farm.

Olga Demidenko
Laboratory
Laboratory, illustrative photo
Photo: pixabay.com

A rare case of bird flu infection with the A(H5N1) strain in a human has been registered in the West Midlands (UK), as reported by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The information was published on the UK Government website.

The patient, who worked on a farm with a large number of infected birds, contracted the virus after prolonged contact with the infected animals.

The patient is currently in stable condition and is receiving treatment at a specialized high-risk infectious disease hospital.

According to Professor Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Advisor at UKHSA, the risk of further spread of the virus among the population remains extremely low.

The infected birds on the farm carried the DI.2 genotype, which is widespread among birds in the UK this season. This strain differs from those circulating in the US. All individuals who had contact with the infected birds have been identified and undergone preventive measures, including antiviral therapy.

Meanwhile, strict biosecurity measures are being enforced on the farm. The infected birds were humanely culled, and the facilities were thoroughly disinfected.

UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss emphasized that the case is extremely rare and highlights the importance of adhering to strict biosecurity measures.

Public Health Minister Andrew Gwynne assured that the country is prepared for any threats and had previously included the H5 vaccine in its strategic stockpile.

The authorities remind citizens to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and to follow recommendations for combating bird flu, including promptly reporting suspicious cases.

Earlier, it was reported that the UK banned the import of livestock and meat products from Germany following the confirmation of a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak to protect farms and prevent the spread of the disease.

It was also revealed that the US Congress Committee had completed its investigation into the origins of COVID-19 and concluded that the virus likely resulted from a lab leak in Wuhan, sparking lively debates.

News from Partners