First H5N1 Human Case Confirmed in Wyoming

Wyoming has confirmed its first human case of H5N1 avian influenza in an older woman from Platte County, who was likely infected through direct contact with a sick backyard flock of chickens. This case represents the 70th human infection in the United States since 2024, although the CDC's official count currently lists only 68 cases. Health officials state that the woman has other health conditions, which may have made her more susceptible, and she is receiving treatment in another state. Despite the seriousness of this case, Dr. Alexia Harrist from the Wyoming Department of Health reassured residents that the risk of widespread infection remains low, as there has been no documented human-to-human transmission of the virus. The H5N1 virus has been spreading among wild birds and has also infected cattle in several states since 2022. Experts continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing common-sense precautions, such as avoiding raw or undercooked animal products.