Canada's First Human Case of H5 Bird Flu: What We Know

A rare case detected in a teenager in British Columbia raises questions.

Canada’s First Human Case of H5 Bird Flu A teenager in B.C. has tested positive for H5 bird flu. The case is rare, and health officials are investigating how the infection was acquired.

Possible Source of Infection Officials believe the teen may have contracted the virus from contact with an infected bird or animal. Health experts are tracing potential contacts.

Infectious Disease Insights Dr. Isaac Bogoch, infectious disease expert, warns that while H5 bird flu is rare in humans, it has pandemic potential if it mutates and spreads more easily.

Precautions at B.C. Children’s Hospital The hospital assures families and staff of stringent infection prevention measures, including PPE assessments, hand hygiene, and thorough cleaning.

Spread in Wildlife and Farms Since October, B.C. has detected H5 bird flu in 23 poultry farms and several wild birds. There is no evidence of bird flu in Canadian dairy cattle.

Bird Flu Cases in the U.S. The U.S. has also seen a few cases among dairy and poultry workers, mainly due to close contact with sick or dead animals.

Mortality Rate and Health Canada Warning Human cases of H5 bird flu have a high mortality rate, but health officials caution this may be overestimated due to undetected mild cases.

How to Stay Safe Health Canada advises avoiding sick or dead animals and practicing good hygiene to reduce exposure risks.

Health officials remain vigilant in infection control, assuring the public that the risk is low but advising caution. Stay tuned for updates and practice preventive measures.