In Ohio, a farm worker has become the first person to catch bird flu. Bird flu is a sickness mainly found in birds like chickens. It can spread from sick animals to people, especially for those who work closely with them. So far, there have been 68 human cases of bird flu in 11 states since January 1, 2024. One of those cases sadly resulted in death in Louisiana. But, health experts say the overall risk of getting bird flu is low for most people. It is most likely to affect workers who are near sick or dead poultry. This Ohio worker got sick after coming into contact with dead birds that had the virus. Health officials are warning everyone to be careful. They say it’s best to avoid touching wild birds and sick animals. Bird flu is a virus found in birds but can sometimes jump to humans. There are different types of bird flu, but the most common ones are called H5N1 and H7N9. Many poultry (like chickens and turkeys) have gotten sick, with millions affected across the country. People who work with poultry, cows, and wild birds have the highest risk. However, human infections are rare, and it doesn’t spread easily from person to person. Bird flu can spread in many ways. If someone touches a contaminated object and then their face, they might get sick. Handling sick birds or drinking unpasteurized milk can also put someone at risk. Symptoms of bird flu can vary. They might include fever, cough, sore throat, or even difficulty breathing. If you ever get these symptoms after being around sick animals, you should tell an adult right away! To stay safe, always avoid sick animals and wash your hands often. If you need to touch a sick animal, wear protective gear! Stay safe and keep learning about the world around us!