First case of human bird flu presumed in Canada, teenage patient hospitalized
The first presumed case of human avian influenza (H5N1, or bird flu) has been reported in Canada, marking a significant development in the ongoing battle against the virus. The Health Minister of Canada, Mark Holland, confirmed the report, emphasizing that there is currently no evidence of person-to-person spread of the virus in any of the cases identified globally.
The patient, a teenager in British Columbia, is currently receiving treatment at BC Children’s Hospital. A public-health investigation has been initiated to determine the source of exposure and identify any contacts. The BC government stated that the source of exposure is likely to be an animal or bird, and efforts are underway to investigate this further.
Dr. Sam Scarpino, director of AI and life sciences at Northeastern University, expressed concern over the potential H5N1 infection in Canada. He highlighted the severity of the teenager’s hospitalization, which is uncommon for influenza infections in teenagers without underlying health conditions. This case also marks the first known locally acquired H5N1 infection in Canadian history, raising the threat level considerably.
In the U.S., there have been a total of 46 confirmed reported human cases of bird flu, with a majority in California, Washington, and Colorado. A recent CDC study revealed that farm workers exposed to H5N1-infected dairy cattle had bird flu antibodies, indicating previous infection with the virus. The CDC is recommending active monitoring of exposed workers, testing for infections, and expanded access to personal protective equipment.
Dr. Scarpino emphasized the importance of serosurveillance efforts, vaccination for at-risk individuals, and access to proper protective equipment to prevent further spread of the virus. He warned that it is only a matter of time before human-to-human transmission occurs if proactive measures are not taken.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health. Fox News Digital reached out to Canada Health for comment on this concerning development.
