Missouri's Mysterious Bird Flu Case: A CDC Investigation

A person in Missouri contracted bird flu, marking the 14th U.S. case this year, with the CDC investigating the origin. The infected individual had severe symptoms, and the case remains isolated. The CDC is coordinating with Missouri's health officials and developing new diagnostic tests with commercial labs.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced Thursday that the exact mode of transmission for a bird flu case in Missouri remains unidentified. This case adds to the 13 diagnosed in farm workers this year, all tied to poultry or dairy farms.

The infected Missouri patient exhibited chest pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and is currently hospitalized. According to CDC principal deputy director Nirav Shah, it is unclear if the symptoms were purely flu-related or due to underlying health issues.

The CDC, alongside Missouri health officials, continues its investigation. Although Missouri has not requested an on-site inquiry, the CDC is collaborating closely with state authorities. Additionally, the CDC plans to work with five commercial labs to develop new diagnostic tests for public health outbreaks.

(With inputs from agencies.)