A resident of Grays Harbor County has tentatively tested positive for avian influenza, potentially marking Washington’s first human case of the virus in 2025. Confirmatory testing is currently being conducted by the Washington State Public Health Laboratories. The patient, an older adult with pre-existing health conditions, was hospitalized in early November after experiencing a high fever, confusion, and respiratory distress. They are now receiving treatment in King County after prior care in Thurston and Grays Harbor counties.
Health officials are actively investigating possible sources of the infection, focusing on potential contact with wild or domestic birds. Despite the preliminary positive result, experts in public health have not detected any risk to the general populace. The Washington State Department of Health is working closely with local health departments and healthcare facilities to support the ongoing investigation.
Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is caused by the influenza A virus and is naturally found in wild aquatic birds. It can also infect other bird species and occasionally mammals. Human cases of avian influenza are rare and generally mild, presenting symptoms such as conjunctivitis, fever, and respiratory problems. Most human infections have been associated with exposure to sick or infected animals.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently evaluates the public risk from avian influenza as low. However, individuals who work with or have recreational contact with potentially infected animals are advised to take precautions, including wearing personal protective equipment. Public health officials are monitoring those who have had close contact with the patient to ensure that human-to-human transmission is not taking place. The likelihood of avian influenza outbreaks increases during the fall and winter months as migratory birds spread the virus to domestic animals.
People with backyard poultry are advised to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and to report any illness to the Washington State Department of Agriculture. Veterinarians are also encouraged to report suspected cases in domestic animals or livestock. Furthermore, the public is urged to avoid handling sick or dead wildlife and to notify the Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife if such cases arise. To minimize the risk of simultaneous infection with both human and avian influenza viruses, individuals, especially those exposed to sick birds, are recommended to receive a seasonal flu vaccine. This vaccination is advised for everyone aged six months and older.
