H5N1 Facts: How to best protect your pets from Avian Influenza A

Heather Ainsley ECB Publishing, Inc. According to a press release issued on Jan. 6, 2025, by the Louisiana Department of Health, the patient who had previously been hospitalized with the first human case of highly pathogenic avian influenza, also referred to as “bird flu,” HPAI or H5N1, has died. This individual was reported to be over the age of 65 and had underlying medical conditions. They contracted H5N1 after exposure to a combination of a non-commercial backyard flock and wild birds. While experts are following the potential development of this disease closely, and the current public health risk is low, there are ways citizens can help prevent the spread and reduce the risk of