In the midst of an ongoing outbreak among birds and cows in the United States, a second human case of bird flu has been discovered. Authorities have revealed that the infected individual works on a dairy farm in Michigan and had regular exposure to livestock carrying the H5N1 virus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that both of the reported cases, including the first case in Texas less than two months ago, exhibited only mild symptoms and have since fully recovered. The CDC also assured the public that the risk of widespread transmission remains low.

Similar to the Texas case, the Michigan patient experienced primarily eye symptoms, which is often observed in humans infected with avian flu viruses. The infection was confirmed through a sample taken from the individual's eye, while respiratory tract testing yielded negative results. This outcome was deemed "reassuring" by a CDC official during a recent briefing, as it suggests a reduced likelihood of the virus spreading through respiratory means.

Contrary to its name, the bird flu virus is not limited to birds alone and has recently been detected in cows across several states. While avian flu is generally fatal for poultry, it does not prove as lethal for cattle. Although the virus rarely spreads to humans, isolated human cases have occurred worldwide.

The Texas case emerged earlier this spring, coinciding with the ongoing outbreak in the United States. The first recorded human case of H5N1 bird flu in the US dates back to 2022 in Colorado.

Authorities in Michigan are urging farm workers exposed to infected animals to report even mild symptoms, given the possibility of additional human cases. The CDC highlighted the presence of "high levels" of the H5N1 virus in raw milk and its circulation among cows. However, the risk to the general public remains low as long as human infections remain sporadic and without person-to-person transmission.

The CDC advises individuals to limit their exposure to sick or deceased animals, their excreta, bedding, unpasteurized milk, or any objects in close contact with them. Separate guidelines are provided for poultry and livestock farmers, including recommendations on personal protective equipment (PPE).

As health authorities closely monitor the situation, it is crucial for individuals with prolonged contact with infected birds or animals, or their environments, to adhere to these preventive measures. The collective effort will help minimize the spread of the virus and safeguard public health.