Washington state health officials have confirmed the country’s first human case of H5N5 — a strain of avian influenza carried by wild birds such as ducks and geese — in a Grays Harbor County resident hospitalized earlier this month.

The patient, an older adult with underlying health conditions, was admitted in early November with severe flu-like symptoms. He remains hospitalized.

Health officials say public risk remains low, but investigations into the source of exposure are ongoing. The individual kept a mixed backyard flock that had contact with wild birds, which authorities consider the most likely source of infection.

The Washington State Department of Health is working with local public health officials and the Washington State Department of Agriculture to conduct both human and animal health investigations. So far, disease experts say they have found no evidence of broader risk to the community.

The H5N1 strain of the virus is more common in the U.S. but still considered rare, researchers say.

Avian influenza viruses circulate naturally in wild aquatic birds and can spread to domestic poultry, often causing significant outbreaks. Human infections are uncommon and typically occur after close, unprotected contact with infected animals. In the United States, past cases of avian influenza have ranged from mild illness to severe disease, including one fatality.

The risk of avian influenza tends to rise in the fall and winter as migratory birds move through the region. Human-to-human transmission of avian influenza remains extremely rare and has never occurred in the U.S. Still, public health staff are monitoring anyone who had close contact with the patient.

Health officials urge people who handle birds or other animals to use protective gear, report sick or dead animals to state agencies, avoid contact with wildlife, and stay current on seasonal flu vaccination to reduce the risk of co-infection.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.