California has declared a state of emergency in response to a surge in avian influenza (H5N1) cases, including the first severe case reported in the United States and a significant rise in infections.

Governor Gavin Newsom announced the emergency declaration to combat the spread of H5N1. While no severe cases have been reported in California, the state accounts for 34 of the 61 cases reported nationwide this year, making it the most affected region.

“This is a proactive measure to strengthen the state’s response,” Governor Newsom said, adding, “The public health risk remains low, but we will take all necessary steps to prevent the spread of this virus.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that a patient in Louisiana has been hospitalized with avian flu and is showing severe symptoms. Since April, 61 cases of H5N1 have been reported in the United States, with the virus spreading to hundreds of poultry farms and infecting humans. However, no cases of human-to-human transmission have been documented.

Meanwhile, the spread of avian flu has led to restricted egg distribution, causing egg prices to soar and widespread shortages.