The first avian influenza death among humans in 2026 in the United States has been confirmed, according to Washington state officials and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The individual who died was hospitalized with severe illness after contracting avian influenza—commonly known as the bird flu—following exposure at a dairy facility that contained infected cattle, the Yakima Health District in Washington said on Nov. 1.
“Our hearts go out to the individual’s family and loved ones during this difficult time,” Dr. Dave Atteberry, the health officer for the Yakima Health District, said in a statement. “Avian influenza can cause severe illness, particularly among people who have underlying health conditions.”…