CDC Confirms First ‘Severe’ Case of H5N1 Bird Flu in U.S.

Gizmodo - Dec 18th, 2024

The CDC has reported the first severe case of H5N1 bird flu in the U.S., originating from backyard poultry, not human-to-human transmission. The virus, identified as the D1.1 genotype, was confirmed in a patient from Louisiana. Bird flu in humans is on the rise, with 61 confirmed cases in eight states, and a potential ninth in Delaware. The CDC has launched a bird flu tracker to monitor cases. Despite the new case, the CDC maintains that the risk to the general U.S. population is low, as no human-to-human transmission has been detected. Concerns persist about possible transmission through raw milk, especially with incoming health leadership advocating for its consumption.

Cdc H5 N1 Bird Flu Public Health Virus Louisiana D1.1 Genotype

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.0

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The article covers a significant issue regarding the H5N1 bird flu outbreak in the U.S. It provides detailed information about the case and the CDC's response but includes some editorial commentary that affects its balance and clarity.

Accuracy

The article accurately reports on the CDC's declaration and provides details about the case in Louisiana. However, some of the connections made, such as the mention of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., seem speculative without direct evidence presented.

Balance

The article shows some bias, particularly in its commentary on political figures, which detracts from a balanced representation of the news. It could provide more perspectives or counterpoints regarding the health policy implications.

Clarity

While the article is generally structured logically, the inclusion of emotive language and political commentary affects its clarity and neutrality. It could benefit from a more straightforward reporting style.

Source quality

The article references the CDC and The Washington Post, which are credible sources. However, the article doesn't provide direct links or citations to these sources, reducing the ability to verify the reported information.

Transparency

The article discloses some information but lacks details about the sources of certain claims, such as the study on virus survival in raw milk. It also does not clarify potential conflicts of interest, particularly in the political commentary.