The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed the state’s first human case of highly pathogenic avian influenza, with the individual being a commercial poultry worker exposed by a flock in northwest Iowa. This comes after the 11th detection of the virus in poultry flocks this year. The CDC reported 64 cases in humans in the U.S., with the first severe case in Louisiana. Health officials emphasize that the public health risk remains low, as there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission. The HHS urged individuals in direct contact with sick poultry to wear protective gear and seek medical attention if symptoms develop. State and federal agencies maintain that there is no risk in consuming poultry products if cooked properly.
Experts from the College of American Pathologists discussed ongoing monitoring of the virus and highlighted the likelihood of unreported human cases. State Medical Director Robert Kruse reassured that Iowa is prepared to mitigate the impact of the virus. While the Iowa case is not yet listed on the CDC website, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. The department advises caution for individuals in contact with poultry or dairy cattle and stresses the importance of proper cooking and pasteurization to mitigate risks. The state remains vigilant in monitoring the spread and mutation of the virus in various hosts.
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