Human H5 bird flu case confirmed in Missouri

Missouri’s first human case of avian influenza, or H5 bird flu, is being reported. 

The case has been confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

The Missouri Department of Health says the unidentified patient who tested positive also has underlying medical conditions. 

The patient, who has recovered from the virus, reported no exposure to animals. 

H5 is primarily found in wild birds and poultry, and recently in dairy cows and other animals. 

It can occasionally infect humans through close contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. 

There have not been any H5 infections in Missouri’s dairy cattle, but some cases have been found in commercial or backyard flocks and wild birds.