HONOLULU (KHON2) -- The Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) is investigating potential human exposure to a flock infected with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. No human cases of the virus have been reported in Hawaii at this time. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You As of Thursday, 54 individuals have been investigated for possible exposure. Of those, 34 were offered testing due to unprotected contact with the infected birds within the past 10 days, or because they developed respiratory symptoms following the exposure. A total of 29 individuals consented to testing, including 13 who exhibited respiratory symptoms and 16 who showed no symptoms. All those with high-risk exposure, such as prolonged contact with sick or dead birds, also agreed to testing. Samples from the individuals were tested at the State Laboratories Division using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods. All 29 test results, including those of individuals with symptoms, came back negative for avian influenza. Two symptomatic individuals tested positive for common cold viruses. The DOH continues its investigation into potential exposures related to the Mililani Pet Fair, where some attendees had contact with ducks or geese on Nov. 2. Avian influenza detected at Wahiawa duck sanctuary At least four individuals who were exposed only at the event have tested negative for the virus. The U.S. Department of Defense has also assisted in identifying individuals with potential exposure, all of whom have tested negative. The infected flock was confirmed to carry the clade 2.3.4.4b, genotype A3 strain of H5N1, which was first identified in wild birds in Alaska in 2022. This strain is believed to have been introduced to Hawaii through migratory wild birds, and it differs from strains that have infected dairy cows on the mainland U.S. or caused illness in humans in other regions. Although initial test results are reassuring, the DOH advises the public to continue exercising caution. The department recommends avoiding close contact with wild birds and reporting any sick or dead birds to the Department of Agriculture at 808-483-7106 (during business hours) or 808-837-8092 (after hours). Residents who have recently visited or worked on a farm in another state with known H5N1 infections are urged to contact the DOH Disease Reporting Line at 808-586-4586 for a risk assessment. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news For more information, visit the DOH's avian influenza website.