While I typically focus on food and your health, pressing medical updates demand attention. Today, we’re tackling two critical topics: the latest on bird flu (avian influenza) and the rise in seasonal respiratory illnesses, including flu and COVID-19.
With public communication from federal agencies temporarily paused, it’s vital to stay informed. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what’s happening, what it means for you, and how to protect yourself and those around you.
As of January 24th, 2025, respiratory illnesses are driving more people to seek healthcare. Here’s what we’re seeing:
Locally, we’re seeing these same trends, with flu activity increasing significantly.
Since 1997, HPAI A(H5N1) virus infections have been reported in over 925 people, with an alarming 50% case fatality rate. Early outbreaks included 20 cases and 7 deaths in Hong Kong between 1997 and 2003, and since November 2003, more than 900 cases across 24 countries have been documented (CDC).
HPAI A(H5N1) infections can range from mild to severe, including:
Since 2016, sporadic cases have been reported globally, and while rare, they highlight the virus’s ability to persist.
A recent case in Louisiana reminds us of the risks associated with bird flu. A man died after handling wild birds infected with HPAI A(H5N1). This tragic event underscores how deadly the virus can be in humans.
Hospitals now test anyone hospitalized with severe flu symptoms for bird flu. Public health officials use several tools to monitor these trends:
These measures provide early warnings of emerging threats, helping to guide public health responses.
