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December 09.2025

2 Minutes Read

The Unexpected Threat of H5N5 Bird Flu: Low Risk Advised Following Grays Harbor Case

Bird flu risk ‘low’ following Grays Harbor woman’s death

Understanding the Recent H5N5 Bird Flu Case

The tragic death of a 75-year-old woman from Grays Harbor County has raised awareness about the H5N5 avian influenza strain, but health officials emphasize that the risk to the public remains low. This variant, while serious, does not appear to pose a significant threat of human-to-human transmission, which is largely attributed to the nature of the virus itself.

Background on Avian Influenza

Bird flu, or avian influenza, primarily affects wild aquatic birds and can spill over into domestic poultry populations. The recent events mark the first time the H5N5 strain has been documented in a human, following longstanding fears surrounding avian viruses. As of now, there have been no additional cases reported, and health agencies are closely monitoring individuals who had contact with the deceased woman.

Why the Risk is Low

According to the Pacific County Health and Human Services Department (PCHHS), the primary modes of transmission for the H5N5 virus remain specific to the environment and infected birds, with minimal risk for wider transmission. "Exposure to infected domestic poultry or wild birds is the greatest concern, but human infections are exceedingly rare," said Pacific County officials.

Precautionary Measures for Poultry Owners

Poultry owners in Washington State are advised to maintain strict biosecurity measures, such as keeping domestic flocks segregated from wild birds and wearing protective clothing while handling them. Experts recommend reporting sick birds and avoiding direct contact with wild and sick avian populations to minimize risk.

Seasonal Flu Vaccinations

In light of this incident, health officials are also reminding the public about the importance of getting vaccinated against seasonal flu. While the flu vaccine does not offer protection against avian viruses, it can reduce the chances of simultaneous infections with respiratory viruses, which could lead to more severe health complications.

Final Thoughts

With the ongoing monitoring and testing by health agencies, the overall message remains clear: despite the concerns raised by this recent case, the likelihood of widespread infection from H5N5 is incredibly low. People are encouraged to stay informed and practice recommended safety measures around poultry to prevent any future incidents.

Wellness Weekly

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