First human death from avian flu reported in U.S.

Zoom in: The patient, who became the first person hospitalized with severe bird flu in the country last month, was over the age of 65 and reportedly had underlying medical conditions, according to Louisiana officials.

• The person was exposed to sick and dead birds in a non-commercial backyard flock, as well as wild birds.

By the numbers: 66 cases of bird flu in humans have been reported so far, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

State of play: To avoid contracting bird flu, people should not touch sick or dead animals or eat uncooked poultry, eggs and other animal products, including unpasteurized milk, the release said.

• "While the current public health risk for the general public remains low, people who work with birds, poultry or cows, or have recreational exposure to them, are at higher risk," the Louisiana Department of Health wrote.