Avian Influenza Viruses in U.S. Birds — No Surprise

Three such pathogens were recently isolated from domestic and wild birds in the northwestern U.S.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses, which can cause severe — sometimes lethal — disease in humans, were recognized in Hong Kong in 1997 and spread rapidly to other Asian countries. The animal reservoirs for these viruses include several species of wild and domestic birds, including migratory sea birds.

Now, infections with these viruses are emerging in U.S. birds. Between December 15, 2014, and January 16, 2015, there were 14 reports of HPAI H5 isolation — 7 H5N2, 6 H5N8, and 1 H5N1 — from domestic and wild birds in five northwestern states (California, Idaho, Oregon, Utah, and Washington). All domestic birds with known infection were destroyed. Despite 24 reported human exposures, only one person developed influenza-like illne…

Reviewing Author

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

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Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

Avian Influenza Viruses in U.S. Birds — No Surprise

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Reviewing Author