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Tragically, Louisiana has reported the first-ever H5N1 avian flu mortality in the United States. You read correctly—bird flu. The devastating news was released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which noted that although it's a serious milestone, it wasn't totally unexpected. Bird flu has a somewhat negative reputation for inflicting serious disease, and in certain situations, it can even be fatal.
Let's break this down before you start casting wary glances at your backyard chickens. Since 2022, there have been 67 confirmed cases of human H5N1 in the United States, with an additional 66 cases reported since 2024 as of January 6, 2025. The first documented death from this virus in the U.S. occurred recently in Louisiana. However, the global scenario presents a different picture. Approximately half of the over 950 H5N1 infections reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) have ended in death.
No need to worry just yet! The CDC reports that the threat to the public is still low. Their website indicates that there is no evidence of person-to-person transmission. Similar to the circumstances in Louisiana, most H5N1 cases are linked to direct contact with infected animals. So, as long as you're not spending your weekends snuggling sick ducks or turkeys, you should be just fine.
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The CDC is monitoring the situation closely. Here’s an update on their current activities:
- Studying every case: They’re analyzing what happened in Louisiana and elsewhere.
- Active surveillance: Working with local and state partners to find any new cases.
- Monitoring virus changes: Watching for signs the virus could adapt to spread more easily or become resistant to treatments.
- Prevention tips: Sharing advice for those at higher risk, like poultry workers and bird enthusiasts.
So, what can we take away from this? While the threat is real, there's no need to don hazmat suits for a trip to the grocery store. For more information on H5N1 bird flu and ways to safeguard yourself, visit the CDC website, keep yourself updated, and avoid unnecessary interactions with birds.
Let's hope that we don't have to hear any more horrible news regarding bird flu anytime soon and keep Louisiana in our prayers in the interim.
15 Snack Chips That Were Discontinued in Louisiana by 2025
Frito-Lay produces some of the most beloved snacks in the United States, and each year, they unveil exciting new variations on their leading brands, showcasing distinct and innovative flavors.
Exploring beyond your usual preferences can be an enjoyable experience, and you might discover new favorites along the way. Nevertheless, there's no assurance that these new snacks will last, which can be a letdown.
Sporked recently uncovered 15 snacks that Frito-Lay plans on discontinuing in 2025, and they include some of my favorites. If some of your favorites are on this list, you better stock up if you still see them on store shelves and enjoy them while you can.
Maybe if snack enthusiasts rally against the discontinuation, Frito-Lay might reconsider their decision.
Gallery Acknowledgment: David Drew
