Health authorities in Washington have reported the first human case of the rare H5N5 bird flu strain in the United States in nearly a year. The patient, an elderly individual with pre-existing health conditions, was hospitalized in early November after exhibiting symptoms such as high fever, confusion, and respiratory distress. This marks the first instance of the H5N5 strain being detected in humans, although it has previously been identified in animals. State epidemiologist Scott Lindquist emphasized the severity of the patient’s condition during a briefing, as reported by The Washington Post. Officials have assured the public that the risk of widespread transmission remains low. The patient maintains a mixed backyard flock that had contact with wild birds, prompting state and federal agencies to investigate the source of the infection. Health authorities have confirmed no additional cases of H5N5 infection beyond the initial patient. Bird flu, which originates in wild aquatic birds, can spread to poultry and occasionally mammals. Human infections are rare and typically result from direct exposure to infected animals. Cases often increase during colder months as migratory birds facilitate the spread of the virus.