LOS ANGELES -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed the first reported case of avian influenza A(H5N1) in a child in the United States.

The child, who resides in California, experienced mild symptoms and received antiviral treatment, according to the CDC.

"Consistent with previously identified human cases in the United States, the child reportedly experienced mild symptoms and received flu antivirals," the CDC said.

Initial tests showed low levels of viral material, but follow-up testing was negative for H5N1 and positive for other common respiratory viruses. The child is currently recovering, officials said.

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is investigating the source of the child's exposure to H5N1. All household members were tested, and results were negative for H5N1 but positive for other respiratory viruses. There is no evidence of person-to-person transmission from the child, the CDPH reported.

"This case was detected through influenza testing and reported to CDPH through influenza surveillance," the CDC stated.

This marks the second U.S. case identified through national surveillance. The CDC continues to monitor data from influenza surveillance systems, especially in states like California, where outbreaks in wild birds and domestic poultry have been ongoing since 2022.

"Limited and sporadic human infections with avian influenza H5N1 virus, where animal exposure was not identified, are very uncommon but have occurred," the CDC noted.

Including this case, 55 human cases of H5 bird flu have been reported in the United States in 2024, with 29 in California. The CDC assesses the risk to the general public as low but advises caution for those exposed to potentially infected animals.

The CDC recommends avoiding unprotected exposure to sick or dead animals, including wild birds and livestock.