First Case of Avian H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Influenza Virus in Humans Reported in Texas
The first man to have been infected with the avian H5N1 highly pathogenic influenza virus has presented a series of symptoms that have raised concerns among the scientific community and the international media. The individual, identified as an employee of a Texan dairy company, was the subject of a detailed study by experts from various institutions, whose findings were published in the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine.
The patient experienced the first symptoms of the disease in March 2024, reporting redness and discomfort in his right eye. Upon examination, subconjunctival hemorrhages and serous drainage in the eye were observed. The patient denied direct contact with sick animals but disclosed close exposure to dairy cows with similar symptoms in the same area of North Texas.
Confirmation of H5N1 virus infection prompted immediate isolation and treatment with antiviral drugs. Despite treatment, the patient reported mild eye discomfort the next day, with continued subconjunctival hemorrhages. Fortunately, the conjunctivitis resolved spontaneously in the following days, and family contacts remained healthy.
Biological samples confirmed the presence of the virus, with strains related to those found in dairy cattle and wild birds in Texas. The virus showed a mutation associated with adaptation to mammals but no genetic markers influencing drug sensitivity. Interestingly, the virus hemagglutinin was similar to that of two candidate vaccines against A(H5N1), suggesting the possibility of using the isolated strains for vaccine production.
The epidemic of H5N1 avian flu among dairy cattle in the United States raises serious public health concerns. The discovery of a human case linked to this outbreak emphasizes the importance of surveillance and readiness for potential public health threats. Vigilance and preventive strategies are essential to protect public health.