(NewsNation) — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported the first severe case of bird flu in the U.S. in Louisiana.
There have been a total of 61 human cases of H5N1 avian influenza reported in the U.S. since April but this is the first one to be considered severe.
Partial genomic analysis indicates the virus affecting the Louisiana patient belongs to a genotype found in wild birds and poultry rather than the type detected in dairy cows.
Public health experts are still working to determine the source of the infection, but the patient had exposure to sick and dead birds in backyard flocks. It is also the first case of bird flu linked to exposure from a backyard flock in the U.S.
Sporadic cases of bird flu in humans are expected, often due to contact with infected wild or domestic birds.
The agency has not detected any person-to-person spread of the virus and said the current risk to the public remains low.
To avoid contracting bird flu, the CDC recommends those who are in contact with livestock or wild birds, including backyard poultry owners, hunters and bird enthusiasts, should avoid contact with sick or dead birds.
For those who must come in contact with wild birds or other poultry that could be infected, the CDC recommends wearing personal protective equipment and avoiding contact with surfaces or material that can be contaminated with saliva, mucous or animal feces.