Washington State H5N1 Bird Flu Outbreak: 14 Human Cases Reported in Early 2025
Washington state health officials have reported a total of 14 human cases of H5N1 avian influenza, marking a significant development in the ongoing bird flu situation across the Pacific Northwest. As of January 14, 2025, officials have confirmed 11 cases and identified 3 probable cases, with most infections linked to direct contact with infected poultry in commercial farming operations.
The outbreak initially emerged in October 2024, primarily affecting poultry workers in Franklin County, Washington. Despite the increase in human cases, public health authorities emphasize that the risk to the general public remains low, with no evidence suggesting human-to-human transmission of the virus.
In response to the outbreak, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has partnered with local health departments to implement comprehensive monitoring and control measures. These efforts include providing personal protective equipment to workers in high-risk environments and establishing robust testing protocols for potentially exposed individuals.