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The first human case of bird flu in Iowa has been reported by the state's Department of Health and Human Services.

The individual was exposed to the virus while working with infected poultry in a commercial flock in northwest Iowa, according to a news release issued Friday. The person reported mild symptoms and has received "appropriate treatment." The release states the person is recovering.

The case was identified through testing at the State Hygienic Laboratory and confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

As of Friday, the CDC has reported 64 confirmed human cases of bird flu in nine states. Most people became ill after being exposed to infected poultry or dairy cows. There is no evidence that human-to-human transmission of avian flu is happening in the U.S., the release states.

The spread of avian influenza in Iowa among birds has increased in recent weeks. As of Monday, the state had reported eight flocks -- totaling about 6.8 million birds -- where bird flu had been confirmed. They were reported over a span of 10 days after more than five months of no detections in Iowa poultry.

The virus is often transmitted by wild, migrating birds. There has been a spike in recent weeks of virus activity among those birds, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

The virus is spread to humans through prolonged exposure around infected flocks and herds, through the eyes, nose or mouth. Any individuals with direct contact who develop flu-like symptoms or an eye infection are urged to contact a doctor. To reduce the risk of infection or spread, people in direct contact with exposed animals should wear proper PPE and avoid direct contact with sick or dead animals, including birds.

CDC officials on Wednesday confirmed the first known severe human illness in the U.S. caused by bird flu. A person in Louisiana is hospitalized in critical condition with severe respiratory symptoms caused by a bird flu infection, state health officials said. The person, who is over 65 and has underlying medical problems, had been in contact with sick and dead birds in a backyard flock.

"Iowa has monitored the spread of avian influenza closely since it was first detected in poultry in the state in 2022, and our state is prepared with the established knowledge, strong partnerships, and effective tools to mitigate its impact on our community," said Iowa HHS State Medical Director Dr. Robert Kruse.

There is no concern about the safety of eggs and poultry products or pasteurized milk and dairy products, the release states. Consumers are reminded to properly handle and cook eggs and poultry products, including cooking to an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Pasteurization has proven to successfully inactivate bacteria and viruses, like influenza, in milk.

The DNR reports infected wild birds might show no symptoms. The agency warns people to avoid contact with sick or dead ducks and geese.