A Grays Harbor County resident has preliminarily tested positive for avian influenza (bird flu), marking what could become Washington’s first human case of 2025. Final confirmation is still pending through the Washington State Public Health Laboratories, but local and state officials are already investigating.

Despite the severity of the individual’s illness, health experts emphasize that there is no identified risk to the general public.

What We Know About the Case

The patient-an older adult with underlying health conditions-was hospitalized in early November after developing a high fever, confusion, and respiratory distress. They are currently receiving treatment in King County after earlier care in Thurston and Grays Harbor counties.

Public health teams are working with local departments and medical facilities to determine how exposure occurred, including any potential contact with wild or domestic birds.

About Avian Influenza

Avian influenza is caused by influenza type A viruses carried naturally by wild aquatic birds. These viruses can spread to domestic poultry like chickens and turkeys and, on rare occasions, to people.

Most U.S. human cases historically have been mild, presenting with symptoms such as:

• Conjunctivitis (red eyes)

• Fever

• Respiratory issues

You can learn more from the CDC’s avian influenza overview.

Cases tend to rise in fall and winter as migratory birds move through the region, potentially spreading the virus to commercial poultry operations and backyard flocks.

The good news: human-to-human transmission is extremely rare and has never been documented in the U.S. Still, public health officials are closely monitoring anyone who had contact with the patient out of an abundance of caution.

Avitrol Easy Blend

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Public Health Guidance

According to the CDC, the risk to the general public remains low. But people who work with or frequently interact with birds or livestock should take precautions, including:

• Wearing proper personal protective equipment (PPE)-gloves, masks, eye protection, and fluid-resistant coveralls

• Avoiding contact with sick or dead birds

• Reporting suspicious illness in animals to the appropriate agencies

Backyard poultry owners should report sick or dead birds to the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) via phone at 1-800-606-3056 or through their online reporting tool.

Veterinarians should also report suspected cases in domestic animals to WSDA.
Sick or dead wildlife should be reported to the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife.

Food Safety Reminders

To reduce risk:

• Do not consume raw or undercooked products, including unpasteurized milk or cheeses.

• Do not feed raw animal products to pets.

These steps protect both human and animal health.

Seasonal Flu Vaccination Matters

While the seasonal flu shot won’t prevent avian influenza, it lowers the chances of becoming sick with both flu strains simultaneously-something that can worsen illness severity. The seasonal flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older.