Student Insurance FAQs

Avian influenza, or 'bird flu'

• What should I know about the first case of novel influenza A (H5N1) reported in Texas?

  The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has reported the first case of novel avian influenza A (H5N1) in the state. The patient fell ill after contact with dairy cows believed to have H5N1. This is the second case identified in the U.S. and is believed to be associated with the recent detections of H5N1 in dairy cows announced by the Texas Animal Health Commission.

  Read the full DSHS announcement.

• What are the symptoms of avian influenza, A (H5N1)?

  Providers should consider the possibility of H5N1 in people who have symptoms of influenza and relevant exposure history. This includes people who have had close contact (within 6 feet) with a person with suspected or confirmed H5N1 infection, affected animals, or unpasteurized milk from dairy farms with suspected H5N1.

  Signs and symptoms of H5N1 may include:

  • Fever (temperature of 100°F [37.8°C] or greater) or feeling feverish or chills
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Eye redness (conjunctivitis)
  • Difficulty breathing/shortness of breath
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Seizures

  Although not commonly associated with seasonal influenza, conjunctivitis has been observed in avian influenza A virus infections. Patients presenting with conjunctivitis symptoms should be asked about any recent exposure to animals.

• What should clinicians do if they suspect a patient has avian influenza?

  Providers should consider the possibility of H5N1 in people who have symptoms of influenza and relevant exposure history. This includes people who have had close contact (within 6 feet) with a person with suspected or confirmed H5N1 infection, affected animals, or unpasteurized milk from dairy farms with suspected H5N1.

  If you suspect a case of H5N1 in a patient, contact Harris County Public Health at 713-439-6000 (after hours: 713-755-5000) or the Texas Department of State Health Services at 800-705-8868 and the Infection Prevention team at 713-500-5822 or 713-500-5849. Then proceed with following 400.021 Transmission-Based Precautions and Post-Exposure Management for droplet and airborne prevention.

  Antiviral treatment with a neuraminidase inhibitor is recommended as soon as possible for any patient with suspected or confirmed infection with H5N1. According to DSHS, treatment should not be delayed while waiting for lab results.

• How do I get fit tested for a respiratory device?

  To be fit tested for a respiratory device, fill out the Respiratory Protection Program Questionnaire — managed by the Office of Safety, Health, Environment, and Risk Management (SHERM) — or call their office at 713-500-8100.