PORTLAND, Ore. – The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has reported that three individuals diagnosed with bird flu in Washington recently traveled to Oregon while infected. These cases are part of an ongoing bird flu outbreak in Washington that has now resulted in a total of nine human cases, including those who crossed into Oregon.
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| A pig in Oregon (not pictured) has tested positive for H5N1 bird flu, according to a Wednesday announcement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. (iStock) |
The three individuals were monitored by Oregon health officials during their stay before returning to Washington, where health staff will continue their monitoring until ten days have passed since their last exposure. Dr. Melissa Sutton from Oregon Public Health reassured the public, stating, “At this time, the risk for the general public remains low,” though she cautioned that prolonged, unprotected contact with infected birds or contaminated environments can increase the risk of transmission.
This Washington outbreak, first identified on October 15, has already led to the culling of approximately 800,000 birds in Franklin County after a confirmed bird flu case, with another case detected at a commercial poultry farm in Clackamas County, Oregon. To control the spread, officials have also euthanized 150,000 birds at this Oregon facility, though the specific farm was not disclosed.
To date, there have been no human cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) originating in Oregon. The OHA is closely monitoring the situation, ensuring that any potential health risks remain low. Stay informed on developments related to avian influenza and other health news at World News.
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