Health officials report 1st Arizona cases of bird flu in humans
Dec 6, 2024, 1:42 PM
The first cases of bird flu in humans in Arizona were announced on Dec. 6, 2024. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
(Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
PHOENIX — Health officials on Friday reported the first Arizona cases of bird flu in humans, stemming from a poultry outbreak at a Pinal County farm last month.
The Arizona Department of Health Services (AZDHS) said two humans contracted avian influenza while working at the commercial facility. Poultry at the farm tested positive for bird flu on Nov. 15.
Both of the infected people reported mild symptoms, received treatment and have since recovered, according to AZDHS.
Is bird flu transmissible between humans?
There is no evidence to date of human-to-human transmission of bird flu. As a result, the risk to the general public remains low, AZDHS said.
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Most human infections occur after unprotected exposure to sick or dead infected animals, or their environment.
Typically, infections happen when the virus gets in a person’s eyes, nose or mouth.
Bird flu symptoms in humans can range from mild respiratory issues to pneumonia, organ failure or even death.
Where has bird flu been detected in Arizona?
The outbreak at the Pinal County farm isn’t the state’s only recent avian influenza incident.
On Nov. 21, bird flu was detected at a backyard flock in Maricopa County.
AZDHS is working with its partners on testing and treatment at the infected locations, including by providing protective gear for workers.
Both outbreak locations were put under quarantine in an effort to mitigate and eliminate the virus.
Anyone who suspects poultry to have bird flu should call the sick bird hotline at 866-536-7593.
