Health Ministry Confirms H5N1 Bird Flu Case in 16-Year-Old Boy

The Ministry of Health has reported another case of H5N1 bird flu, this time affecting a 16-year-old boy in Kratie province. The National In...

The Ministry of Health has reported another case of H5N1 bird flu, this time affecting a 16-year-old boy in Kratie province. The National Institute of Public Health confirmed the presence of the virus after testing the boy on Sunday.

Emergency response teams from the Ministry of Health, along with officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and local authorities, are actively investigating the outbreak. Their primary goal is to identify potential sources of transmission among both animals and humans.

In efforts to contain the spread, the teams are searching for other suspected cases within the community. They are also distributing Tamiflu vaccines and conducting a health education campaign in the affected area.

The Ministry of Health issued a reminder about the seriousness of the H5N1 virus, urging people to remain vigilant. Symptoms include fever, coughing, runny nose, and shortness of breath. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention and avoid crowded places.

To minimize the risk of transmission, individuals are advised to wash their hands frequently and avoid contact with sick or dead birds. Close contact with infected birds is a common route of transmission from animals to humans.

This case in Cambodia adds to the global concern over bird flu outbreaks. Since late 2021, Europe, North America, and South America have experienced severe outbreaks. Millions of domestic poultry have been culled, with significant impacts on both domestic and wild bird populations.

According to the World Health Organization, Cambodia has seen 64 cases of human infection with H5N1 since 2003, resulting in 41 deaths. The recent case underscores the ongoing threat posed by the virus and the importance of continued surveillance and response efforts.

As health authorities work to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission, the public is urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. Early detection, prompt treatment, and adherence to hygiene measures are essential in mitigating the spread of H5N1 bird flu.