Slide Show: Human Infection with H5N1 Virus
On Jan. 8, 2014, the Public Health Agency of Canada reported the first confirmed case of human infection with avian influenza A (H5N1) virus identified in North America. The patient exhibited symptoms while returning from travel to Beijing, China, on Dec. 27, 2013. The patient was hospitalized on Jan. 1, 2014, and subsequently died on Jan. 3, 2014. Investigations by Canadian public health officials are ongoing. The CDC says that this case is a reminder that novel influenza A viruses, including avian influenza A (H5N1) virus, can infect and cause severe respiratory illness in humans. Since avian influenza A (H5N1) viruses have only been rarely, and never sustainably, transmitted from person to person, there is a very low risk of subsequent related cases. To date, no cases of human infection with avian influenza A (H5N1) viruses have been reported in the United States.
Considering Avian Flu: World Health Organization Expert Warns Against Raw Milk
January 6th 2025Drinking raw milk poses risks of disease transmission, especially with H5N1 outbreaks. Expert Richard J. Webby, PhD, advises against raw cow or goat milk consumption due to its unpredictable and significant risks.
Avian Flu Risks in Veterinary Practice: Protecting Those on the Frontlines
January 6th 2025Veterinarians, technicians, and veterinarian infection preventionists face risks from H5N1 avian flu when handling farm animals or exposed wildlife. Learn key prevention strategies, PPE recommendations, and emerging challenges.
Understanding the True Threat: Richard Webby, PhD, on H5N1 Avian Flu and Its Human Impact
January 3rd 2025Richard Webby, PhD, the director of the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre or Studies on the Ecology of Influenza in Animals and Birds, discusses the evolving dynamics of H5N1 avian flu, its variants, and the low risk to humans while emphasizing vigilance among health care professionals.
Top 7 Infection Control Today Articles of 2024: Insights and Innovations
December 30th 2024From advanced sterilization methods to combating antimicrobial resistance, Infection Control Today’s top articles of 2024 delivered actionable strategies for safer healthcare environments and improved patient outcomes.
Revolutionizing Infection Prevention: How Fewer Hand Hygiene Observations Can Boost Patient Safety
December 23rd 2024Discover how reducing hand hygiene observations from 200 to 50 per unit monthly can optimize infection preventionists' time, enhance safety culture, and improve patient outcomes.
