Austin, TEXAS – Austin Public Health (APH) has detected traces of Influenza A (H5N1), commonly known as Bird Flu, in the local wastewater through its continuous monitoring efforts. No human cases have been reported locally, and the current risk to the public remains low.
The detection of influenza viruses in wastewater does not necessarily indicate undetected human cases. Influenza in wastewater can originate from various sources, including birds or livestock, or from secretions/excretions into wastewater from infected animals in the area.
Three human cases of H5N1 associated with exposure to sick cows have been reported in the U.S., all resulting in mild illness. APH emphasizes awareness of virus symptoms, especially for individuals working around cattle and other animals. APH is collaborating with local healthcare partners to disseminate information on symptoms and testing.
Individuals are advised to take precautionary steps to reduce infection risk:
- Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms should consult their healthcare provider for testing and treatment.
The Texas Epidemic Public Health Institute conducted the wastewater surveillance that identified these traces.
On April 1, 2024, the Texas Department of State Health Services issued a health alert reporting the first human case of H5N1 in Texas. This case involved a farmworker exposed to infected dairy cattle through contact with their milk, feces, and body fluids. The presence of this case indicates potential human exposure routes beyond wild birds and poultry, extending to mammals such as dairy cattle.
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