In a recent development, bird flu, specifically the H5N1 strain, has been detected in wastewater samples in the greater Houston area, according to Harris County Public Health (HCPH). However, HCPH has reassured the public that there have been no reported human cases of the virus in Harris County, and the source of H5N1 in the wastewater remains unknown.

Harris County Public Health stated that the most likely source of the virus is related to agriculture, indicating a low risk to the public. This finding comes after bird flu was detected in wastewater samples from nine cities in Texas between March 1st and May 13th, 2024. Among these cities, Austin also reported traces of the virus in its wastewater systems, with no human cases reported and the risk to the public deemed low.

It is important to note that the detection of bird flu in wastewater samples does not automatically imply that individuals in the community are infected. Chris Van Deusen from the Texas Department of State Health Services explained that traces of the inactive virus can still be present in pasteurized milk if it originated from a cow infected with bird flu. If such milk is poured down the drain, it could potentially reach wastewater systems. However, pasteurization effectively kills viruses and bacteria, ensuring that pasteurized milk from infected cows does not pose a risk to human health.

Van Deusen further highlighted that wastewater testing, typically conducted through a technique called PCR, detects fragments of genetic materials from viruses rather than live viruses themselves. Therefore, the presence of bird flu fragments in the wastewater samples may not necessarily indicate an active infection.

The first human case of bird flu in Texas was confirmed in the panhandle region two months ago. However, the current cases detected in wastewater do not appear to be linked to any reported infections in humans.

In order to minimize the risk of exposure to bird flu, health officials advise avoiding contact with animal excrement, litter, unpasteurized raw milk, or materials that may have come into close contact with birds or other animals suspected or confirmed to have the A (H5N1) virus. Drinking raw milk should also be avoided as a precautionary measure.

As investigations continue, Harris County Public Health and other related authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.