A hospitalized patient in Missouri has tested positive for bird flu, marking the 14th case in the U.S. since March. This individual had no known contact with dairy cows or other animals linked to the ongoing outbreak, according to health officials.
The virus was initially detected in cows after infecting wild birds and mammals globally. The risk to the general public is deemed low, as no unusual flu activity has been reported in the U.S., including Missouri.
The infected person, an adult, was hospitalized on Aug. 22 for unrelated medical conditions and later tested positive for influenza A, which was confirmed to be bird flu by the CDC. The individual received antiviral treatment and has since recovered.
It remains unclear how the patient was exposed to the virus, as previous U.S. cases were linked to individuals working with cows and poultry. Bird flu has been identified in numerous dairy herds across 14 states but not in Missouri.
The investigation is ongoing, and no close contacts of the patient have been infected. This case is unique as it was detected through routine influenza surveillance rather than targeted efforts to identify those exposed to infected animals.
Health officials emphasize the importance of monitoring the situation closely and urge the public to remain vigilant. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services continues to work on identifying the source of the infection and implementing necessary precautions.
