First Global Case of H5N5 Avian Flu in Humans Confirmed in Washington State

A Washington State resident has become the first confirmed human case of the H5N5 avian influenza worldwide. The individual, an older adult from Grays Harbor County with health issues, contracted the virus from domestic poultry. Public health officials maintain that the risk to the public is low.

A Washington State resident has tragically become the first confirmed human case of the H5N5 avian influenza worldwide, succumbing to the virus late on Friday, as confirmed by the state's health department. The patient, an older adult from Grays Harbor County, faced underlying health challenges.

Investigations revealed the virus in the environment of the deceased's backyard flock, suggesting domestic poultry or wild birds as the likely source of transmission. Despite the gravity of this singular case, health officials assure that the risk to the wider public remains minimal.

Those who came into close contact with the patient and the flock are under observation for any potential symptoms. The health department emphasized that there is no current evidence suggesting human-to-human transmission of this particular avian influenza variant.

(With inputs from agencies.)