U.S. confirms new human H5 bird flu case

The United States has confirmed a new human case of avian influenza A ("H5 bird flu") in the state of Missouri, also the first human case without a known occupational exposure to sick or infected animals, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The case was identified through Missouri's seasonal flu surveillance system. The patient has underlying medical conditions, was hospitalized and treated with influenza antiviral medications before being discharged, and has recovered, according to the CDC. This is the 14th human case of H5 reported in the United States this year, said the CDC. Based on available data, the CDC currently assesses the risk of H5N1 to the public as low. The CDC said that it continues to closely monitor influenza surveillance systems, particularly in affected states, and there has been no sign of unusual influenza activity in people, including in Missouri. Enditem Source: The Namibia Press Agency