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First Canadian Bird Flu Case Critical
A British Columbia teen is critically ill with Canada's first human case of bird flu, raising concerns about the virus's potential to spread among humans.
English
Canada
HealthPublic HealthPandemicOutbreakAvian FluVirus
National Institute Of Allergy And Infectious DiseasesBc Centre For Disease ControlCanada’s National Microbiology Laboratory
Bonnie Henry
- What were the initial and subsequent symptoms experienced by the teen?
- The teen initially experienced pink eye and respiratory symptoms, worsening to respiratory distress requiring intensive care. Tests indicate an H5 subtype of influenza A, likely the highly pathogenic strain affecting birds and other mammals.
- What is the current status of the British Columbia teen with avian flu?
- A British Columbia teenager is in critical condition with the first known case of bird flu in Canada. The source of the infection is unknown, despite investigation of the teen's contacts and environment.
- What is the significance of this case concerning human-to-human transmission?
- While human-to-human transmission of avian flu is rare, the case highlights the potential for severe illness. About half of the 900 global cases since 1997 have been fatal, underscoring the need for continued monitoring.
- What is the overall risk assessment for Canadians concerning this avian flu outbreak?
- Public health officials emphasize that the risk to Canadians remains low, but ongoing vigilance is necessary due to potential mutations and the role of animals like pigs in viral evolution.
- Why are experts investigating the difference in severity between cases in the US and previous outbreaks?
- Experts are investigating why human cases on U.S. dairy farms seem milder, considering factors like past underreporting and differing immune responses in children. The possibility of mutation and easier human transmission is a concern.