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6mo ago

First Human Cases of H5N1 Bird Flu Reported in Canada and U.S.

A Canadian teenager and several U.S. farm workers test positive for H5N1, raising concerns over the spread of the virus among animal industry workers.

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Avian flu is spreading rapidly through British Columbia poultry farms, including half a dozen diagnosed in commercial flocks this week alone.

Overview

  • A teenager in British Columbia is the first person in Canada to contract H5N1, with the infection linked to local poultry outbreaks.
  • The U.S. has confirmed 46 human cases this year, primarily among farm workers, with no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
  • British Columbia's chief veterinarian has urged clinics to implement protocols to prevent the spread of avian flu from wild birds.
  • The virus has significantly impacted poultry and dairy industries in North America, leading to millions of birds being culled.
  • Health authorities emphasize that the risk to the general public remains low, but caution is advised for those in close contact with infected animals.