Avian flu detected on Oahu for the first time ever

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – For the first time ever, Hawaii’s Department of Health believes they’ve detected H5 Avian influenza from a wastewater site on Oahu.
DOH did not immediately provide the location of the site.
Officials say the specimen was collected on Nov. 7 and DOH received the result Tuesday.
H5N1, also called Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is one type of H5 avian influenza.
DOH says they’re unable to confirm if this detection is HPAI and say further investigation is needed.
A nationwide outbreak of H5N1 has been spreading among birds and mammals, but officials says there’s no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission of H5N1 in the United States.
DOH says Hawaii has been the only state without H5N1 detected in birds or animals and there are no reports of human or animal H5N1 cases in Hawaii.
Hawaii health officials reassure the overall risk of H5N1 statewide remains low.
DOH says they will partner with federal agriculture and wildlife agencies for further investigation, prevention, and public health surveillance efforts.
With the possible detection, DOH provided “best-practice” guidance for interacting with animals and consuming animal products:
Symptoms of avian influenza may include fever, cough, sore throat and conjunctivitis. Antiviral flu treatment is recommended as soon as possible.
Contact the Department of Health at 808-586-4586 immediately if you believe you have contracted H5N1 or been in close contact with sick or dead animals.
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