Washington Reports First Human Case of Rare Bird Flu Strain

Key Takeaways

Washington state has confirmed the first U.S. human case of the H5N5 bird flu strain

Officials say the public risk is low

More than 100 people who came in contact with the infected individual were monitored

MONDAY, Nov. 17, 2025 (HealthDay News) — A Washington state resident has become the first person in the United States to test positive for a rare bird flu strain that has never before been found in humans.

The older adult, who has underlying health problems, was hospitalized in early November after developing a high fever, confusion and trouble breathing.

“This is a severely ill patient,” state epidemiologist Dr. Scott Lindquist told The Washington Post .

Experts stress that the public health risk remains low.

Testing by the Washington State Department of Hea