England Reports Human Case with Bird Flu

According to The Telegraph, a farm worker in England's West Midlands has tested positive for bird flu after contracting the virus from infected poultry. 

This person is the seventh case in the UK to contract bird flu since 2021 and only the second to exhibit symptoms. The worker is reportedly in good condition and is currently under observation in a specialized infectious disease unit.

Health officials have emphasized that the risk to the general public remains "extremely low." 

The detected strain is the same as the one responsible for widespread outbreaks across the UK late last year, including those in turkey farms. 

Authorities have confirmed no evidence of human-to-human transmission and are closely monitoring all individuals who had contact with the affected person. Antiviral medication has been offered to those at higher risk as a precautionary measure.

Dr. Christine Middlemiss, the UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer, highlighted the growing number of bird flu cases among birds nationwide. She urged farmers to adhere strictly to biosecurity measures to prevent further spread.

Professor Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser at the UK Health Security Agency, reassured the public, stating:

"We have robust systems in place for early detection and response. While bird-to-human transmission can occur, there is currently no evidence of onward human transmission in this case."