Who, what, where, why, when and how. These are the basics we should all look for in any legitimate news story. So, while getting more detail on the “where” in the first US human death from H5N1 virus, yes, I did notice the intersection of H5N1 and unusual pollution risks in Southwest Louisiana. Recently, Louisiana reported its first human death linked to H5N1, involving an individual over 65 years old with pre-existing health conditions who had contact with infected backyard poultry. The implication, the “how”, is immediate risk for those working with birds. While the CDC assesses the overall public health risk from H5N1 as low for the general population, individuals in close contact with affected poultry are at heightened risk. Is that the actual “how”? It may well be, but I note that concurrently, the region faces significant environmental pollution from industrial activities, including LNG and petrochemical plants, which contribute to respiratory issues and other health problems among residents. This cumulative exposure to pollutants exacerbates existing health vulnerabilities, suggesting that the challenges posed by H5N1 and pollution may compound health risks for local communities, necessitating an approach to address both infectious disease threats and environmental health concerns. This article will look at how these two topics may intertwine.
A reported human death from H5N1 bird flu virus in Louisiana has raised significant public health concerns. Here are some points from the latest reports.
On December 18, 2024, Louisiana reported its first severe case of avian influenza A(H5N1), confirmed by the CDC. The patient, who had been exposed to sick and dead birds in backyard flocks, was hospitalized with severe respiratory symptoms. This case marked a significant escalation in H5N1 presence in the U.S., with 61 reported human cases nationwide since April 2024. Tragically, on January 6, 2025, it was announced that the patient had died, marking the first death attributed to H5N1 in the United States.
The individual was over 65 years old and had pre-existing health conditions. Genetic analysis identified the strain involved as D1.1, linked to other severe cases in North America. Notably, genetic sequencing revealed concerning mutations that arose during the patient’s infection but were absent in animal hosts. These mutations suggest that the H5N1 virus likely adapted while replicating within the human host rather than spreading widely in nature.
Health authorities are investigating the source of the infection, focusing on exposure to backyard poultry and wild birds. The patient contracted the virus after contact with a non-commercial backyard flock and infected wild birds. Monitoring for additional cases or signs of human-to-human transmission is ongoing, although health officials emphasize that the public risk remains low, with no detected person-to-person transmission.
H5N1 has a high case fatality rate (CFR) estimated at over 50%, based on WHO data. Since 2003, approximately 887 confirmed human cases have resulted in 463 deaths. Experts warn that if H5N1 mutates for efficient human-to-human transmission, its lethality could be significantly higher than COVID-19; however, such a mutation remains uncertain.
Should H5N1 evolve into a pandemic virus capable of efficient human transmission, experts suggest a potential outbreak could occur within the next year with significant economic impacts estimated at around $640 billion for the U.S. alone. While earlier reports mentioned unusual fog in Southwest Louisiana, this detail has not been substantiated in relation to the H5N1 case.
The deceased was a resident of Calcasieu Parish in southwestern Louisiana, an area known for its petrochemical and oil refining industries. These sectors play a crucial role in the local economy and are expected to drive job growth through industrial expansions.
The specific location within Calcasieu Parish where the patient resided has not been disclosed due to privacy concerns. Health officials have emphasized patient confidentiality and indicated that this will be the final update regarding this case.
Pollution and Wildlife: The presence of numerous petrochemical facilities in the region, particularly around Mossville, has been linked to health issues among local residents, which may indirectly affect local wildlife, including birds. The concentration of pollutants from these facilities is believed to contribute to environmental degradation that can harm bird populations and their habitats[18].
“People throughout Calcasieu Parish, the county in which Mossville is located, are ill in unusually high numbers. They believe that the concentration of petrochemical plants — 40 in a ten-mile radius — is the cause of the widespread illness. Conoco, Sasol, and PPG are three of the facilities that have long garnered complaints from local citizens. Though much of the parish population suffers the effects of industrial pollution, the African American citizens of Mossville bear a disproportionate share of the burden.”[18]
Direct DNA Damage: Certain petrochemicals, particularly polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals, can directly interact with DNA. These substances may form covalent bonds with DNA bases, leading to mutations through mechanisms such as base mispairing or strand breaks. For instance, exposure to benzo[a]pyrene, a potent PAH, can result in the formation of DNA adducts that increase cancer risk by mutating critical genes like the p53 tumor suppressor gene[19].
Alteration of Viral Dynamics: Exposure to high concentrations of PAHs has been shown to significantly impact the interactions between viruses and certain bacteria. In a study analyzing skin microbiomes, it was found that PAH exposure altered the composition and function of skin-associated viruses[20].
Public Health Risk Assessment: Despite this severe case and death, health officials maintain that the overall risk to the general public remains low. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has emphasized that most infections are related to animal-to-human exposure and that there is currently no widespread threat to human health from H5N1[3][6][8]. Health officials noted that there was no evidence of human-to-human transmission, and no other cases have been reported in Louisiana related to this incident
Previous Cases: Since April 2024, there have been a total of 66 reported human cases of H5N1 across the United States, although most have been mild infections related to different genotypes circulating primarily among poultry[2][6].
Summary of Case Distribution:
- Dairy Cattle Exposure: Texas, Michigan, Colorado, California
- Poultry Exposure: Colorado, Iowa, Oregon, Washington, Wisconsin
- Backyard Flocks/Wild Birds/Other Mammals: Louisiana
- No Known Animal Exposure: Missouri
Missouri, First Case: On September 6, 2024, a human case of H5N1 was confirmed in Missouri. This individual in Jefferson City, Missouri, had no known contact with infected animals and was hospitalized due to underlying health conditions but has since recovered. This case was significant as it was the first instance of H5 avian influenza in the U.S. without any recognized contact with infected animals[21][22][26].
Missouri, Second Case: On October 25, 2024, a second individual in Missouri was reported to have contracted H5N1 without any known exposure to poultry or dairy cows. This case was confirmed in Jefferson City. This person lived with the first patient, but investigations indicated that the symptoms began simultaneously, suggesting a shared exposure rather than transmission between individuals[23][24][28].
Missouri Mystery Fog: Experts indicate that the fog is likely a natural weather phenomenon. Fog forms when air temperature drops to its dew point, leading to high moisture levels that can absorb pollutants and odors from the environment. This absorption could explain the reported smells and health effects experienced by residents. The high moisture content can also exacerbate respiratory issues for some individuals.
Hazardous Waste Assessment: A Hazardous, Toxic, and Radioactive Waste (HTRW) assessment identified several properties in Jefferson City with potential contamination risks. Notable sites include the Former MFA Oil Bulk Plant and other industrial locations that have been linked to soil and groundwater contamination. The assessment emphasizes the need for careful management of these sites during construction activities to prevent further environmental degradation[32].
Symptoms and Treatment: Symptoms of bird flu can vary widely, including common flu symptoms such as cough and vomiting, as well as conjunctivitis. Most patients have recovered within a few days, often treated with antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu)[2][5].
Public Health Recommendations: The Louisiana Department of Health advises individuals who work with birds or have recreational exposure to them to take precautions to avoid infection. This includes avoiding contact with sick animals and ensuring proper hygiene practices[2][4].
In recent years, significant funding has been allocated to the development of H5N1 vaccines, particularly in response to rising concerns about avian influenza.
Key Funding Milestones
These funding efforts reflect a proactive approach to pandemic preparedness, ensuring that vaccines can be rapidly developed and made available if needed.
October 2024: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced a $72 million funding initiative aimed at vaccine manufacturers to enhance the readiness of bird flu vaccines, including those for H5N1. This funding supports companies like CSL Seqirus, Sanofi, and GSK in filling and finishing vaccine doses from bulk storage into ready-to-use forms[33][34].
May 2024: CSL Seqirus was selected to supply 4.8 million doses of an H5 vaccine to the National Pre-Pandemic Influenza Vaccine Stockpile program. This vaccine is specifically designed to match circulating H5N1 strains[35].
July 2024: The U.S. government awarded $176 million to Moderna for developing an mRNA vaccine against bird flu, particularly targeting the H5N1 strain. This funding is part of a broader initiative to prepare for potential pandemic threats[37][38].
Fogvid-24
The unusual chemical-smelling fog reported across the U.S. and internationally has sparked conspiracy theories, with some suggesting it may be a bioweapon or a deliberate government act. These narratives gain traction on social media, where users share personal accounts of illness following exposure to the fog. Experts emphasize that while the fog may carry pollutants, there is no scientific evidence supporting claims of it being a biological weapon.
Speculation has arisen regarding the origins of the fog, particularly in light of recent relaxations in environmental regulations. Some theorize that polluting companies could exploit health issues related to their practices by shifting blame and influencing public narratives, potentially compromising public health for corporate profit. This highlights the need for robust regulatory frameworks to protect citizens from environmental hazards.
Economic incentives may drive companies to continue polluting rather than invest in cleaner technologies. Regulatory frameworks lacking stringent enforcement create a competitive disadvantage for compliant companies, leading to a race to the bottom where firms relocate operations to regions with lax regulations, perpetuating environmental degradation and public health risks.
The petrochemical industry also wields significant power in shaping news narratives and public opinion. Research indicates limited media coverage of environmental crimes related to this industry, often focusing on significant penalties rather than broader implications for marginalized communities. This selective coverage diminishes public awareness of the negative impacts of petrochemical operations.
To clarify, there is no evidence that polluting companies are monetizing health issues related to their environmental harms by shifting blame to pathogens or through secret vaccine profit-sharing arrangements. Mentioning these possibilities serves as a caution for regulators to ensure such scenarios do not occur in the future.
Standard H5N1 Tips for Staying Safe
1. Avoid Contact with Sick or Dead Animals – Do not handle sick or deceased animals or their droppings, and refrain from bringing any sick wild animals into your home.
2. Protect Your Pets – Keep your pets away from sick or dead animals and their feces to minimize the risk of disease transmission.
3. Cook Food Thoroughly – Avoid consuming uncooked or undercooked foods. Ensure that poultry, eggs, and other animal products are cooked to the appropriate temperatures, and take care to prevent cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.
4. Steer Clear of Unpasteurized Products – Do not consume uncooked food items, such as unpasteurized raw milk or cheeses from animals that may be infected.
5. Get Vaccinated if You Work in Agriculture – If you are employed on a poultry or dairy farm, consult with a healthcare provider about receiving your seasonal flu vaccination. While this vaccine does not prevent avian influenza viruses, it can help reduce the risk of co-infection with both avian and more common flu viruses.
6. Report Sick or Dead Wildlife – If you encounter dead or ill birds or animals, report them to the US Department of Agriculture at 1-866-536-7593
Alt Tips for Staying Safe from “H5N1”
1. Avoid the chemical fogs: Do not breathe these fogs or get them on your skin if you can help it, as people have reported illnesses and rashes after exposure. Be cautious of any aerial spraying or chemical treatments in your area.
2. Question Official Narratives – Stay informed and skeptical of mainstream media reports regarding H5N1 outbreaks. Investigate alternative sources of information to understand the full scope of the situation and any potential cover-ups.
3. Monitor Local Wildlife – Keep an eye on local wildlife populations for unusual behavior or sudden die-offs. Get immediately away from such areas. Document any changes and share your findings with community groups or online forums focused on wildlife health.
4. Stock Up on Supplies – Consider gathering essential supplies, including non-perishable food, water, and medical supplies, in case of a sudden outbreak or quarantine measures that may limit access to resources.
5. Stay Connected with Like-Minded Individuals – Join local or online communities that share your concerns about H5N1 and other potential threats. Sharing information and resources can help you stay informed and prepared.
6. Be Cautious with Vaccines – Research the ingredients and potential side effects of any vaccines related to H5N1 or other flu strains. Understand the risks versus benefits and consider alternative preventive measures. Read the patents for the vaccines and work to understand the method of action. Read the methods sections of studies and work to understand the statistical analyis of results.
7. Trust Your Instincts – If something feels off about the information you’re receiving regarding H5N1 or public health measures, trust your instincts and dig deeper into the facts before making decisions based on fear or pressure from authorities.
8. Have Protective Gear – Equip yourself with protective gear such as masks, gloves, supplemental oxygen, and goggles when in areas where exposure to potentially infected animals or chemicals is possible. This can help minimize direct contact with pathogens or harmful substances that may be present in your environment. Test your gear to be sure you can wear it comfortably and that it is effective.
Conclusion
The situation surrounding H5N1 in Louisiana underscores the importance of vigilance regarding avian influenza. While the immediate risk to the general public remains low, ongoing monitoring and public health measures are crucial to ensure community safety.
Read More
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2024/m1218-h5n1-flu.html
[2] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/bird-flu-h5n1-death-first-us-louisiana/
[3] https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/1/6/us-reports-first-death-linked-to-bird-flu-in-louisiana
[4] https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2025/m0106-h5-birdflu-death.html
[5] https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/06/health/bird-flu-death-louisiana.html
[6] https://edition.cnn.com/2025/01/06/health/bird-flu-death-louisiana/index.html
[7] https://www.cnn.com/2025/01/06/health/bird-flu-death-louisiana/index.html
[8] https://ldh.la.gov/news/H5N1-death
[9] https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2025/01/06/bird-flu-first-human-death-us/
[10] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calcasieu_Parish,_Louisiana
[11] https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/calcasieuparishlouisiana
[12] https://www.visitlakecharles.org/plan-your-visit/calcasieu-parish/
[13] https://www.katc.com/news/covering-louisiana/state-health-officials-report-first-avian-flu-death
[14] https://www.americanpress.com/2025/01/06/sw-la-resident-nations-first-severe-bird-flu-case-dies/
[15] https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2024/m1218-h5n1-flu.html
[16] https://apnews.com/article/bird-flu-death-louisiana-82e4d00876e62cb2b13bb621826c84f9
[17] https://www.cityoflakecharles.com/egov/documents/1439237334_20231.pdf
[18] https://labucketbrigade.org/our-work/supporting-fenceline-communities/mossville/
[19] https://www.ijfmr.com/papers/2024/4/23870.pdf
[20] https://academic.oup.com/ismej/article/18/1/wrae218/7841796?login=false
[21] https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2024/s0906-birdflu-case-missouri.html
[22] https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/06/health/first-human-case-of-bird-flu-not-linked-to-animals/index.html
[23] https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2024-10-25/cdc-confirms-second-human-bird-flu-case-in-missouri-with-no-known-exposure-to-farm-animals
[24] https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-10-cdc-human-bird-flu-case.html
[25] https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2024/s1003-birdflu-case-california.html
[26] https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy0rzqwxp7jo
[27] https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/04/health/bird-flu-california-missouri.html
[28] https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2024/10/24/missouri-bird-flu-human-transmission/
[29] https://www.yahoo.com/news/americans-alarmed-chemical-fog-spreading-173029805.html
[30] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/116919746.cms
[31] https://khmoradio.com/ixp/463/p/mysterious-fog-in-missouri/
[32] https://www.nwk.usace.army.mil/Portals/29/Appendix%20C2%20HTRW.pdf
[33] https://abcnews.go.com/Health/us-72m-vaccine-manufacturers-advance-bird-flu-shot/story?id=114502971
[34] https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2024/10/04/emergency-bird-flu-vaccines-stockpile-h5n1-infection/75511111007/
[35] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H5N1_vaccine
[36] https://www.who.int/news/item/29-07-2024-new-initiative-launched-to-advance-mrna-vaccine-development-against-human-avian-influenza-(h5n1)
[37] https://www.wired.com/story/moderna-mrna-vaccine-bird-flu-h5n1/
[38] https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/us-awards-moderna-176-million-produce-bird-flu-vaccine-2024-07-02/
[39] https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/10.1093/reep/rex013
[40] https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/environmental-crime-and-media-news-coverage-petroleum-refining
[41] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/us/parts-of-the-u-s-blanketed-by-fog-conspiracy-theories-run-rampant-on-social-media-and-users-say-its-bioweapon-in-the-guise-of-chemical-fog/articleshow/117002406.cms
[42] https://www.lung.org/research/sota/health-risks
[43] https://ifp.org/what-are-the-chances-an-h5n1-pandemic-is-worse-than-covid/
[44] https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/100-times-worse-than-covid-pandemic-experts-on-risk-of-h5n1-bird-flu-outbreak-101712278768773.html
[45] https://www.bu.edu/sph/news/articles/2024/what-we-know-and-dont-know-about-h5n1-bird-flu/
[46] https://slate.com/technology/2024/09/bird-flu-how-deadly-humans-missouri-case-pandemic.html
[47] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10389235/