Grays Harbor resident tests positive for bird flu. Here’s what to know
A Grays Harbor resident has tested positive for a type of bird flu this month that has never before been reported in human, Washington State Department of Health announced Friday.
The resident, who was hospitalized earlier this month with influenza symptoms, has been confirmed to have influenza A H5, a type of bird flu, according to a news release. Further testing determined the resident was infected with the H5N5, an avian influenza virus that has been reported in animals before but never before reported in a human. This is also the first confirmed case of bird flu for the state in 2025.
Bird flu is an infection by avian influenza type A viruses, per the state DOH website. These viruses naturally occur in wild aquatic birds, but poultry, other wildlife, domestic animals and even people may also be infected. Typically, people have become infected after having close contact with infected birds, animals or environments where the infection was present.
The affected resident reportedly had a mixed backyard flock of domestic poultry at home and had been exposed to wild birds, according to the release. DOH described the person as an older adult with underlying health conditions who developed a high fever, confusion and respiratory distress.
The resident was hospitalized earlier this month and is currently being treated in King County, after previously being treated in Thurston and Gray Harbor counties.
“The domestic poultry or wild birds are the most likely source of virus exposure; however, public health investigation is ongoing,” the release states. “The Washington State Department of Health is working with the local health department and the Washington State Department of Agriculture to complete exposure and animal health investigations.”
So far, public health disease experts have not identified any increased risk to the public.
People who have been infected with bird flu typically develop a mild illness. Symptoms have included conjunctivitis, or red eyes, as well as fever and respiratory issues.
DOH warns there is a higher risk of avian influenza in the fall and winter because of the presence of migratory birds that can carry the virus to domestic animals.
There have been 11 confirmed cases and three probable cases of bird flu in Washington state prior to the newest one, according to data from DOH and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. All of those cases resulted from exposure to poultry.
CDC data show there have been 70 confirmed cases and 7 probable cases nationwide. Only one death has been attributed to bird flu in the country.
The CDC maintains that bird flu risk is low and there has been no known person-to-person transmission thus far.
DOH advises people who work with infected birds or other animals to wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks, eye protection and fluid-resistant coveralls or other outerwear.
Anyone with backyard poultry is advised to avoid touching sick or dead birds. Illnesses can be reported to the Washington State Department of Agriculture by calling 1-800-606-3056 or submitting an online form.
Vets are also advised to report sick or dead domestic animals or livestock suspected of having bird flu to the WSDA via an online form.
Sick or dead wildlife can be reported to the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife through another online form.
DOH advises the public to avoid contacting sick or dead wildlife and avoid eating raw or undercooked food products. The same goes for pets.
A seasonal flu vaccine cannot prevent bird flu infection but it can reduce the risk of becoming sick with both human and bird flu viruses. DOH recommends anyone six months and older get a seasonal flu vaccine.
This story was originally published November 14, 2025 at 9:15 AM.
