The Ohio Department of Health has reported the state's first probable human case of influenza A(5), also known as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) or bird flu. 

It was reported that an adult male farm worker from Mercer County was in contact with deceased commercial poultry that was infected with the virus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently considers the risk of bird flu to the general public low.

However, individuals with prolonged, unprotected contact with infected birds face a higher risk.

If you approach sick or dead poultry, specifically migratory waterfowl, commercial poultry owners should practice good biosecurity and prevent contact.

It's advised to avoid handling sick birds or other animals and report immediately of unusual signs of disease or unexpected deaths to Ohio Poultry Association at 614-882-6111 or the Ohio Department of Agriculture at 614-728-6220 or after hours at 888-456-3405. 

According to the Ohio Department of Agriculture, the best biosecurity practices for commercial poultry owners include: 

- Limit contact with wild birds: Keep your poultry indoors when possible and implement wildlife management around your farm to prevent exposure.

- Control visitor access: Only allow those who care for your birds to interact with them, ensuring they follow biosecurity measures.

- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling poultry. If using hand sanitizer, remove debris first. 

- Use protective measures: Provide disposable boot covers or disinfectant footbaths for anyone interacting with your flock. Clean boots of any debris before using footbaths and keep them clean.

- Control pests: Set up rodent and pest control system, and store feed, bedding and litter to minimize contamination by wildlife.

- Use safe water: Always use water from a safe, contained source (like a well or municipal supply) for drinking and cleaning purposes (avoid surface water).

- Disinfect equipment: Clean and disinfect all tools, vehicles and equipment before moving them between poultry facilities. Avoid reusing items that can't be properly cleaned.

- Monitor for illness: Keep an eye on signs of disease, such as changes in egg production, unusual death rates, swelling, labored breathing or reduced appetite and water intake.

Nationally, there has been 68 confirmed cases of bird flu in 11 states since the beginning of 2024, which included one death in Louisiana. 

There are no known cases of human-to-human transmission.

"While the risk to Ohioans is low, the best way to prevent bird flu is to avoid unprotected exposures to sick or dead birds or to their environment," said ODH Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA.

He continues, "People should avoid direct contact with poultry or wild birds and take proper precautions, including reaching out for guidance regarding personal protection and safe handling, if you must be around sick or dead birds."