Austin Wastewater Reveals Presence of Bird Flu; Guide to Recognize Symptoms and Protect Yourself

Avian Flu Detected in Austin’s Wastewater

The bird flu virus, H5N1, has made its presence known in Austin’s wastewater, according to recent reports from Austin Public Health. Despite ongoing control measures, the threat of human contraction still remains relatively low.

Austin Public Health is keen to clarify that the detection of influenza viruses in wastewater does not necessarily mean a surge in undetected human cases. The virus could also originate from other sources, such as secretions or excretions into wastewater from infected birds, livestock, and other nearby animals.

Awareness of Avian Flu and Precautions

Mindy Cohen, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), spoke about avian flu recently, emphasizing that it’s a well-studied virus that healthcare professionals have been preparing defenses against for decades. She asserted that the availability of dedicated tests, adaptable vaccines, and treatments like Tamiflu places us in a strong position to manage the situation.

“The overall risk to the population is currently low,” she said, “We need to stay ahead of the virus.” That means addressing the source of the virus, which currently lies in outbreaks at dairy and poultry farms.

Monitoring Stretching Beyond Wastewater – Austin Public Health’s Proactive Measures

In addition to monitoring the presence of diseases in wastewater, the Austin Public Health department maintains a watchful eye on clinics and hospitals to provide the latest information concerning the virus.

According to a recent report by the CDC, the disease is prevalent across millions of poultry in 48 states, including Texas, and in multiple dairy cattle herds across 12 states.

Anticipation and Mitigation: H5N1 Human-to-human Transmission

Although H5N1 has not been observed yet to be transmitted from human to human, Austin Public Health remains vigilant. If such a case were to emerge, it would trigger prompt response plans, including broad advisories on preventative measures.

Symptoms of H5N1 in Humans and Preventative Measures

Many of the symptoms of avian flu resemble common flu symptoms and can vary in intensity, ranging from mild to severe, including hospitalization and, in some severe instances, death. One stark difference, though, is that H5N1 avian flu has led to fatality rates as high as 50% in some outbreaks. Those who have been exposed to a sick or dead animal and are experiencing flu-like symptoms are urged to contact their healthcare provider.

Key symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, fatigue, eye redness (conjunctivitis), difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and seizures.

Your health and the health of your community can be ensured by taking some precautions. Do not touch a dead or sick animal and call animal control. Avoid the consumption of unpasteurized milk or cheese. Maintain good personal hygiene practices such as handwashing and not touching your face. Stay home if you are sick and cover your cough. Wear a mask if a high concentration of the illness is reported.