**Child in California Contracts Mild Case of Avian Influenza A(H5N1)**

A child in California has been confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to have contracted avian influenza A(H5N1), commonly known as H5N1 bird flu. This marks the first reported infection of an avian influenza H5 virus in a child within the United States. The child, who exhibited mild symptoms, was administered flu antivirals and is now recovering. Initial tests revealed low levels of the virus, but subsequent testing for H5N1 was negative, though the child tested positive for other common respiratory viruses.

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has launched an investigation to determine how the child might have been exposed to H5N1. As part of their inquiry, specimens were collected from all household members, all of whom also reported symptoms. Fortunately, tests for H5 influenza were negative in all family members, though some tested positive for other respiratory viruses. Currently, contact tracing shows no evidence of person-to-person transmission of H5N1 in connection to this case or any other reported cases in the U.S. up to this point.

This case was identified through routine influenza surveillance and reported to CDPH, making it the second case discovered through this national system. The CDC continues to carefully analyze data from influenza surveillance, notably in states like California where H5N1 outbreaks have affected wild birds, domestic poultry, and more recently, dairy herds as of August 2024. To date, there have been 55 human cases of H5 bird flu in the United States this year, with 29 of these in California alone.

Despite the rising number of cases, the CDC assesses the risk to the general public as low. They advise that individuals who may come into contact with potentially infected animals or contaminated environments—like birds, poultry, cows, or other wild and domesticated animals—should avoid unprotected exposure.

The CDC, committed to protecting public health and safety, will keep the public informed with updates and relevant information as it becomes available.