The recent news of the first H5N1 bird flu-related death in the United States—a resident of southwest Louisiana—has understandably heightened concerns, especially among pregnant women and parents of young children.

While human infections are still rare, it’s natural to feel anxious about the health and safety of your family.

Pregnancy and infancy are times when you’re extra vulnerable, so it’s extra important to stay informed and take steps to keep your loved ones safe.

In this blog, we’ll provide you with essential information about the H5N1 bird flu, explain why pregnant women and infants may be at increased risk, and share practical steps you can take to safeguard your loved ones. 

What is the H5N1 bird flu and should you be concerned?

The H5N1 bird flu is a strain of influenza primarily found in birds.

It is part of the larger family of avian influenza viruses, which are common in wild waterfowl and poultry.

While these viruses mostly infect birds, certain strains, including H5N1, can occasionally jump to humans, often through direct contact with infected birds, contaminated environments, or improperly cooked poultry products.

How does H5N1 bird flu transmit?

H5N1 is believed to have come about through changes in bird populations, where flu viruses often mix and swap genes. Human infections with H5N1 are rare, but when they occur, they often result in severe illness.

Transmission to humans is typically linked to:

• Handling infected birds or their droppings.
• Exposure to contaminated surfaces, such as those in live bird markets.
• Consumption of undercooked or raw poultry products.

H5N1 bird flu symptoms

H5N1 bird flu can be severe for humans, with symptoms ranging from mild to life-threatening. Certain groups—adults, pregnant women, and infants—are particularly vulnerable. It’s crucial to be aware of the key symptoms to watch for in each group.

Symptoms in adults:

According to the CDC, in adults, symptoms of H5N1 infection often resemble those of a severe respiratory illness and may include:

• eye redness and irritation (conjunctivitis)
• mild fever (temperature of 100ºF [37.8ºC] or greater) or feeling feverish*,
• cough
• sore throat
• runny or stuff nose
• muscle or body aches
• headaches
• fatigue

Redness of the eyes has been the most common symptom in recent U.S. cases of avian influenza A(H5) virus infection, while less frequent symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

If left untreated, the infection can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia or respiratory failure, and it can be fatal.

Why are pregnant women at higher risk for H5N1 bird flu?

Pregnancy naturally weakens the immune system, which is why pregnant women are more susceptible to infections, including H5N1. When infected, the body’s ability to fight off the virus may be compromised, leading to more severe complications. Studies have shown that pregnant women who contract H5N1 are at much higher risk for serious outcomes.

A systematic review in Emerging Infectious Diseases found that H5N1 avian influenza led to 90% maternal mortality and 87% fetal loss in 30 reported cases among pregnant women, highlighting the severe risks to both mother and baby.

The risks are even greater because H5N1 can cross the placenta, affecting the fetus directly. This can lead to miscarriage or preterm birth, and the baby may be born with severe health issues due to the infection. Given these risks, pregnant women need to be especially cautious in avoiding exposure to potentially infected birds or environments with outbreaks.

Why are babies at higher risk for H5N1 bird flu?

Newborns and infants are also at a heightened risk. Their immune systems are still developing, which means they don’t have the same defenses against serious infections like H5N1.

If a baby becomes infected, the virus can cause severe respiratory problems and complications, sometimes leading to pneumonia or even organ failure. Their smaller bodies and weaker immunity make it harder for them to fight off the virus, which is why prompt medical attention is crucial if symptoms appear.

Additionally, a study in Clinical Infectious Diseases reported a case fatality rate of 48.7% for children infected with H5N1, with children aged 5 and under having the lowest fatality rates.

How does H5N1 bird flu affect babies?

H5N1 bird flu can be particularly dangerous for infants because their immune systems are still developing. If a baby contracts the virus, it can lead to severe respiratory issues and, in some cases, can be life-threatening. Infants are especially vulnerable to complications from infections like pneumonia.

To learn more about the risks and protective measures, you can check out the CDC’s Avian Influenza page.

What are the CDC’s recommendations to prevent H5N1 bird flu?

The CDC offer clear and practical recommendations to help prevent the spread of H5N1 bird flu, especially in vulnerable populations like pregnant women and infants. Following these guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

• Avoid contact with infected birds: The most effective way to prevent H5N1 infection is to avoid exposure to infected birds. Stay away from poultry farms, live bird markets, and environments with known outbreaks. Always avoid handling sick or dead birds.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after handling birds or their eggs. If soap is unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Cook poultry and eggs thoroughly: Properly cooking poultry and eggs kills the virus. The CDC recommends cooking poultry to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid consuming raw or undercooked poultry or eggs.
• Take precautions during travel: If traveling to regions with active bird flu outbreaks, avoid contact with birds and ensure all poultry and eggs are thoroughly cooked. Monitor your health closely and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms appear.
• Stay informed about local outbreaks: Stay updated on reports of avian influenza in your area or places you plan to visit. Local health authorities, including the CDC, provide updates on outbreaks, helping you take necessary precautions.
• Seek medical help if symptoms appear: If you develop flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or sore throat, and have been in contact with birds or an outbreak area, seek medical help right away. Early treatment can improve recovery chances, especially for pregnant women and infants.

By following these simple yet effective guidelines, you can help protect yourself and others from the risks of H5N1 bird flu.

How can you stay safe from H5N1 bird flu at home?

Staying safe from H5N1 bird flu at home requires some simple but effective precautions. Here are a few actionable steps you can take to protect yourself and your family:

• Avoid handling sick or dead birds: If you come across sick or dead birds, avoid touching them. Wear gloves if you must handle them and disinfect your hands afterward.
• Disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces that may come into contact with birds or animal products, especially in kitchens and food prep areas.
• Cook poultry thoroughly: Always cook poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential viruses.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after handling birds, eggs, or anything that might be contaminated.
• Isolate ill family members: If someone shows flu-like symptoms, keep them away from healthy family members and seek medical advice promptly.

Taking these steps at home can help reduce the risk of H5N1 infection and keep your household safe.

How can you protect your baby during an H5N1 bird flu outbreak?

Protecting your baby during an H5N1 bird flu outbreak is crucial, as infants are more vulnerable to severe complications. Here are a few key steps you can take:

• Limit exposure to birds: Avoid any contact with birds, especially in areas with known outbreaks. Keep your baby away from live bird markets and farms.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, especially before touching your baby, after handling birds, or touching potentially contaminated surfaces.
• Keep your baby indoors: Limit outdoor activities in areas with reported bird flu cases to reduce the risk of exposure.
• Avoid crowded places: In case of an outbreak, avoid places with large gatherings, where the risk of virus transmission may be higher.
• Monitor your baby’s health: Keep a close eye on your baby’s health. If your baby shows any flu-like symptoms, contact a healthcare provider immediately.

By following these precautions, you can help reduce your baby’s risk of contracting H5N1 during an outbreak.

Conclusion

Staying safe from H5N1 bird flu is all about being cautious and following simple steps like avoiding contact with infected birds and practicing good hygiene. Keeping yourself and vulnerable groups, like pregnant women and infants, protected is key. If you start feeling symptoms, don’t wait—get medical help right away. Stay safe out there!

Sources:

1. First bird flu death. NPR. 2025. “First bird flu death in the U.S. has been reported in Louisiana”
2. Bird flu signs. CDC. 2024. “Signs and Symptoms of Bird Flu in People” 
3. Bird flu during pregnancy. CDC. 2025. “Systematic Review of Avian Influenza Virus Infection and Outcomes during Pregnancy”
4. Bird flu in children. Clinical Infectious Diseases. 2012. “H5N1 Avian Influenza in Children”
5. Bird flu. CDC. 2025. “Bird Flu”
6. How to keep food safe from bird flu. CDC. 2024. “Food Safety and Bird Flu.”