Officials in Texas have confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI or bird flu) in Austin-Travis County. The virus was detected in dead birds found in North Austin after tests conducted by an area veterinary lab.
Austin Public Health Department and Texas Department of State Health Services issued an advisory to remind the public that individuals working with infected wild birds, poultry, or dairy cows are at a higher risk of contracting the virus if exposed to sick or infected animals.
While bird flu primarily affects wild birds and domestic poultry, there have been over 60 human cases reported across the United States. The first human case of bird flu in Louisiana resulted in the death of a patient over 65 with underlying medical conditions.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identified a mutated version of the virus in the Louisiana case, raising concerns about potential human-to-human transmission. Both the CDC and the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) emphasize that the overall risk to the public remains low.
Officials warn that individuals in contact with birds, poultry, or cows face a higher risk of contracting the virus. As of the latest update, there have been 66 confirmed human cases of bird flu, with the majority linked to exposure to cattle herds.
Avian influenza is highly contagious and can spread through contact with infected animals, equipment, and the clothing and shoes of caretakers, according to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
