Louisiana health officials confirmed the first human death from bird flu in the United States. The deceased individual, an elderly person with underlying health conditions, had been in contact with sick birds.
While 66 human bird flu infections have been reported in the U.S. since March, this is the first fatality. Previous cases were generally mild, primarily affecting farmworkers.
This death underscores the seriousness of the H5N1 bird flu virus, which has been circulating widely among birds and other animals. Health officials emphasize the importance of precautions when handling poultry, including wearing protective gear.
They are continuing to investigate the virus and monitor the situation closely.