An April 5 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) health advisory informed clinicians, state health departments, and the public of a confirmed human infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(5N1) virus in the United States.
Since 2022, there has been two individuals test positive for HPAI A(H5N1) in the United States. While current risk to the public remains low, those with occupational or recreational exposures to wild birds, cattle or mammals may be at higher risk of infection.
CDC recommends that health care providers review the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus in Animals: Interim Recommendations for Prevention, Monitoring, and Public Health Investigations. to assist identifying potential cases of HPAI A(H5N1).
If patients exhibit symptoms compatible with HPAI A5N1, health care providers should do the following:
- Isolate patient and follow infection control recommendations, including use personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Initiate empiric antiviral treatment as soon as possible, even if still awaiting laboratory results
- Notify state and local health department to arrange testing for HAPI A(H5N1) virus and collect needed respiratory specimens.
- Encourage patients to isolate at home away from their household members and stay home from work or school until it is determined they do not have HAPI A(H5N1) virus infection.
Contact Director of Policy Rob Nelb at rnelb@essentialhospitals.org or 202-585-0127 with questions.
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