CDC Confirms First Serious U.S. Case of H5N1 Bird Flu in Backyard Flock, Triggers Emergency Response
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported the first serious case of H5N1 bird flu linked to a backyard flock in the United States, raising nationwide alarm. The case involves a patient in Louisiana who contracted the virus after exposure to sick and dead birds. This marks the first time the virus has been tied to backyard poultry in the U.S., prompting several states to declare emergencies in an effort to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.
CDC Confirms First Severe U.S. Case of H5N1 Bird Flu in Backyard Flock, States Declare Emergencies
On December 13, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed the first severe human case of H5N1 bird flu linked to a backyard flock in Louisiana — a development that marks a turning point in the virus’s spread within the United States. The infected individual had direct contact with sick birds, signaling the first known transmission from backyard poultry to humans in the country.
This case is part of a wider outbreak that has already resulted in 37 confirmed human infections linked to dairy herds, 21 tied to poultry operations, and two with unknown sources. Genomic testing of the Louisiana case revealed the D1.1 genotype of the H5N1 virus — a strain previously found in U.S. poultry, wild birds, and in human cases in Canada and Washington state. It differs from the B3.13 genotype that has caused recent outbreaks in dairy cattle and poultry. While investigations continue, the CDC reports no evidence of human-to-human transmission and maintains that the risk to the general public remains low.
In response, California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency following the virus’s spread to dairy cattle in Southern California. Since its first detection in Texas and Kansas in March 2024, H5N1 has now been confirmed in 16 states. The emergency declaration allows California to deploy additional resources, fast-track containment efforts, and expand workforce support.
California has ramped up its testing and surveillance systems, working closely with health and agricultural agencies. “We are committed to further protecting public health, supporting our agriculture industry, and ensuring Californians have access to accurate, up-to-date information,” Governor Newsom said in a public statement.
As federal and state authorities intensify their response, the public is urged to take preventive measures. Individuals should avoid direct contact with sick or dead animals — including wild birds, backyard poultry, and livestock. Those who must interact with potentially infected animals are advised to use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and N95 respirators.
Health officials also recommend thoroughly cooking all meat, poultry, and eggs to safe internal temperatures and consuming only pasteurized dairy products. Anyone exposed to infected animals should monitor for symptoms like eye irritation or respiratory distress for 10 days and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.
Employers in the poultry and livestock industries are being called on to review and strengthen occupational safety protocols. This includes identifying high-risk tasks, isolating affected animals, improving sanitation, and ensuring workers have access to appropriate protective gear.
As the nation grapples with this evolving threat, vigilance, transparency, and timely intervention remain key to curbing the spread of H5N1.
