Severe H5N1 avian flu case confirmed in Louisiana raises concerns

A severe case of H5N1 avian flu has been confirmed in Louisiana, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing outbreak. This case differs from the previous 65 mild cases reported in the U.S. since 2024. The new variant, D1.1, has raised concerns due to its severity. However, there is still no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission, which is necessary for a potential pandemic. As flu season approaches, the risk of co-infection with seasonal flu could lead to new variants. The CDC has begun vaccinating farmworkers against seasonal flu to reduce this risk, but more efforts are needed in states with high dairy herds.