Tragically, Louisiana has reported the first-ever H5N1 avian flu mortality in the United States. You read correctly—bird flu. The devastating news was released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which noted that although it's a serious milestone, it wasn't totally unexpected. Bird flu has a somewhat negative reputation for inflicting serious disease, and in certain situations, it can even be fatal.

Let's dissect it before you begin to look suspiciously at your backyard hens. There have been 67 confirmed human H5N1 cases in the United States since 2022 and 66 since 2024 as of January 6, 2025. The first recorded fatality in the United States is the recent example from Louisiana. But the situation is different on a global scale. About half of the more than 950 H5N1 infections that have been reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) have resulted in fatalities.

Don't panic just yet! The risk to the public is remains minimal, according to the CDC. The CDC website states that no proof of person-to-person transmission has been found. Like the situation in Louisiana, the majority of H5N1 illnesses are associated with close contact with infected animals. This implies that you're probably safe unless you're spending your weekends cuddling ill ducks or turkeys.

Anadolu via Getty Images
Anadolu via Getty Images
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The CDC is keeping a close watch, though. Here’s what they’re up to:

  • Studying every case: They’re analyzing what happened in Louisiana and elsewhere.
  • Active surveillance: Working with local and state partners to find any new cases.
  • Monitoring virus changes: Watching for signs the virus could adapt to spread more easily or become resistant to treatments.
  • Prevention tips: Sharing advice for those at higher risk, like poultry workers and bird enthusiasts.

What is the lesson, then? Even though this is a significant issue, going to the grocery store in hazmat suits is not necessary. To learn more about H5N1 bird flu and how to protect yourself, read the CDC website, stay informed, and refrain from needless bird cuddling.

Let's hope that we don't have to hear any more horrible news regarding bird flu anytime soon and keep Louisiana in our prayers in the interim.

15 Discontinued Snack Chips In Louisiana In 2025

Frito-Lay makes some of the most popular snacks in America, and it seems that every year, they introduce new twists on their top brands that feature unique flavors.

It can be fun to venture out of your comfort zone and try new things and those new things can sometimes become new favorites. However, there is no guarantee that the new snacks will stick around for very long, which can be disappointing.

Sporked recently uncovered 15 snacks that Frito-Lay plans on discontinuing in 2025, and they include some of my favorites. If some of your favorites are on this list, you better stock up if you still see them on store shelves and enjoy them while you can.

Perhaps if fans of snacks being discontinued protest, Frito-Lay will change its mind.

Gallery Credit: David Drew

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