The Hawaiʻi State Department of Health (DOH) has swung into action, investigating human interactions with an H5N1 infected flock amidst concerns about avian influenza transmission. The Department has so far cleared all tested individuals of avian influenza following exposure to the infected birds, as detailed in a recent news release.
A total of 54 people were evaluated for potential contact with the birds, and 34 among them were recommended for testing due to direct, unprotected contact or because they showed respiratory symptoms post-exposure. According to the statement released by the Hawaiʻi governor's office, all 29 individuals who consented to testing, including those who showed symptoms and others who did not, have tested negative for the virus. Adding a layer of reassurance, two individuals displaying symptoms were found to have common cold viruses instead.
The investigation extends to attendees of the Mililani Pet Fair held on November 2, where there were interactions with ducks and geese. While four individuals with exposures limited to the event have returned negative results, the DOH maintains vigilance on the situation. "Testing involved collection of swabs from the nasopharynx, nose, throat, and/or conjunctiva that were tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) at the State Laboratories Division," the news release explained on the Office of the Governor website, indicating the thorough approach to screening potential cases.
In partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense, the DOH has also identified and tested individuals with potential exposure within defense department circles, confirming no cases of H5N1. The detected avian influenza genotype, identified as clade 2.3.4.4b, genotype A3, differs from those causing infections in other regions and species. Though it's unclear if this genotype poses a significant risk to humans, its discovery in Alaska wild birds in 2022 has led experts to theorize about its migratory introduction to Hawaiʻi.
The DOH continues to advise the public to avoid close contact with wild birds and report any instances of sick or deceased birds. For residents with farm visits in states affected by H5N1, the Health Department has set up a reporting hotline for risk assessments. More information can be found on their dedicated avian influenza website.
