The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that a second health worker in contact with a Missouri patient who tested positive for H5N1, also developed respiratory symptoms but was not tested for influenza. The patient, who had severe underlying conditions, has since recovered. Initially, close contacts of the patient did not show signs of illness but later two more individuals, including a household contact, reported symptoms. They are undergoing testing for bird flu.
The CDC has collected blood samples for serological testing to confirm past H5N1 infection. The second health care worker will be tested for antibodies. H5 viruses do not typically spread person to person but are concerning due to high mortality rates. How the Missouri patient got infected is still unknown, but officials are investigating potential causes including animal exposure.
Experts are concerned about potential human-to-human transmission given the timing of the illnesses outside flu season. However, it is unclear if the virus has changed to be more easily transmissible. There have been 14 bird flu infections since March, mostly in poultry and dairy workers during an outbreak of H5N1 in dairy cows in multiple states.
The CDC is conducting thorough investigations to identify the source of the infection and prevent further spread. Experts advise caution and close monitoring to prevent potential outbreaks.
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