Local News
Missouri reported human case of H5 bird flu with no known link to animals
The CDC has confirmed the first human case of avian influenza A (H5), also known as H5 bird flu, in Missouri. Despite this, the risk of transmission to the general public remains low.
The case was identified through DHSS’s flu surveillance program. The patient, an adult with underlying health conditions, tested positive for influenza A in late August and has since recovered. The patient had no known contact with animals and was discharged from the hospital.
Further testing confirmed the presence of the H5 subtype, and virus characterization is underway at the CDC. This marks the fifteenth human case of H5 bird flu in the U.S. since 2022.
H5 primarily affects wild birds and poultry, and while rare, humans can contract the virus through close contact with infected animals or contaminated environments.
In Missouri, no H5 infections in dairy cattle have been reported. The state continues to monitor influenza data and there have been no unusual signs of flu activity among people.
Local News
AHA and Health-ISAC Joint Threat Bulletin: Potential Terror Threat Targeting the Health Sector
The American Hospital Association (AHA) and Health-ISAC have issued a joint threat bulletin following the discovery of a social media post suggesting the active planning of a coordinated, multi-city terrorist attack on hospitals in the coming weeks.
This bulletin is being shared out of an abundance of caution to heighten awareness and preparedness within the healthcare sector.
The AHA and Health-ISAC are actively collaborating with the FBI to assess the threat and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
At this time, authorities have not been able to corroborate or discredit the credibility of the threat.
While foreign terrorist organizations typically do not announce planned attacks in advance, the wide circulation of this post could inspire malicious activity against healthcare facilities.
Given the potential risks, health sector organizations are urged to take this threat seriously and review security measures.
- Review Emergency Response Plans
- Evaluate physical security, cybersecurity, and emergency management protocols to ensure preparedness.
- Strengthen coordination efforts between security teams and local law enforcement.
- Increase Situational Awareness
- Monitor suspicious individuals, vehicles, or activities near healthcare facilities.
- Ensure staff and security personnel remain alert and report any unusual behavior immediately.
- Engage with Law Enforcement
- Enhance collaboration with local, state, and federal authorities to facilitate rapid response if necessary.
- Report any concerning incidents directly to law enforcement agencies.
On March 18, 2025, a user identified as AXactual posted a message on X (formerly Twitter) referencing plans for a coordinated terrorist attack targeting healthcare organizations across multiple U.S. cities.
Authorities are analyzing the details of the post to determine its legitimacy and potential threat level.
Organizations within the healthcare sector are advised to remain vigilant and proactive in security measures. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
For any suspicious activity or credible threats, organizations should immediately notify local law enforcement and relevant security teams.