**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**State Health Services Reports H5 Virus – No Cases in Mohave County**

**MOHAVE COUNTY, AZ (December 9, 2024)** – The Arizona Department of Health Services has confirmed the first human cases of the H5 virus in Arizona. The two individuals diagnosed with the virus had been exposed to infected poultry while working at a commercial facility in Pinal County. They experienced mild symptoms, received treatment, and have since recovered.

Avian influenza has been detected in Arizona, including at a commercial poultry farm in Pinal County and in a backyard flock in Maricopa County. Human infections with the H5 virus typically occur following unprotected exposure to sick or deceased infected animals or their environments. Infection can happen when the virus enters a person’s eyes, nose, mouth, or is inhaled through close or prolonged contact with affected animals or their habitats.

Melissa Palmer, Mohave County Health Director, stated, “Currently, there are no reported cases of H5N1 in the county.” She added, “We continue to monitor the statewide situation in conjunction with the Arizona Department of Health Services.”

H5 infection in humans can range from mild symptoms, such as upper respiratory issues and conjunctivitis, to severe conditions like pneumonia, multi-organ failure, and death. There is currently no evidence of human-to-human transmission of the H5 virus. The risk to the general public remains low.

Arizona is actively taking measures to address avian influenza detections in the state:

– Collaborative monitoring of bird flu in farm animals and individuals working closely with poultry and dairy cows, in partnership with local, state, and federal entities.
– Distribution of protective gear to farm workers exposed to infected animals.
– Ensuring access to testing and treatment for individuals showing symptoms of or exposed to bird flu, including prophylactic treatment for those potentially exposed.
– Conducting timely public education efforts to provide information about avian influenza to those affected.

Avian influenza H5 is a novel influenza A virus that primarily affects birds. Human infections are rare; however, exposure to infected animals or contaminated environments increases the infection risk. To mitigate the risk, individuals should avoid unprotected contact with sick or deceased animals and their waste or bedding, and should refrain from consuming unpasteurized (raw) dairy products.

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