A resident of Grays Harbor County, Washington, has died from a rare strain of bird flu known as H5N5. This incident marks the first known human fatality linked to this specific strain, according to the Washington State Department of Health. The individual, an older adult with existing health issues, was undergoing treatment when the death occurred. Health officials emphasize that the overall risk to the public remains low.
The deceased had a backyard flock of domestic poultry that had come into contact with wild birds. This exposure is believed to be the source of the infection. In a statement, the Washington State Department of Health reassured the public, stating, “The risk to the public remains low,” adding that no other individuals connected to this case have tested positive for avian influenza.
Monitoring and Public Health Response
In response to the incident, health authorities are closely monitoring individuals who had close contact with the deceased. They have found “no evidence of transmission of this virus between people.” Earlier this month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a statement indicating that this case does not elevate the risk to public health.
H5N5 is not considered a greater threat to human health than the H5N1 virus, which has resulted in approximately 70 reported human infections in the United States during 2024 and 2025. Most cases associated with H5N1 have been mild, primarily affecting workers in dairy and poultry farms.
According to the CDC, the distinction between H5N5 and H5N1 lies in a specific protein that plays a role in the virus’s ability to exit infected cells and spread to nearby cells. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure public safety.
As the situation develops, state health officials remind the public of the importance of practicing good biosecurity measures around poultry and being vigilant about any potential health concerns. The investigation into the source of the infection continues, as officials work to understand the implications of this rare strain.
