Washington state resident dies from bird flu following exposure to infected cattle

A resident of Washington state has passed away due to complications from bird flu, marking the first such death in the United States within the past year. The individual, a Yakima County resident with underlying health issues, contracted the virus after exposure to infected cattle at a dairy facility where 33 dairy herds have tested positive for the H5N1 strain.

Two other U.S. deaths have been linked to bird flu since it emerged as a public health concern in 2024, with the first occurring in Louisiana in January 2025 and the most recent in Washington state in November 2025. Health officials stated that the person was infected with H5N1, and investigators are monitoring individuals who had close contact with the deceased to prevent further spread.

Despite the bird flu's prevalence among wild birds, poultry, and livestock, the risk to the general public remains low, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They recommend individuals handling sick or dead birds to take necessary precautions, such as wearing respiratory and eye protection and gloves when handling poultry.