Has Cambodia Recorded Its Fourth H5N1 Bird Flu Death in 2025?
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Synopsis
Tragedy strikes Cambodia as an 11-year-old boy becomes the fourth victim of H5N1 bird flu in 2025. With rising concerns over avian influenza, health authorities are on high alert to prevent further outbreaks. Learn about the implications of this virus and the measures being taken to safeguard public health.
Key Takeaways
- Fourth human death from H5N1 recorded in 2025.
- Ministry of Health urges vigilance against bird flu.
- Investigation into the source of infection is ongoing.
- Symptoms include severe respiratory illness.
- Public health measures are critical to prevent outbreaks.
Phnom Penh, May 28 (NationPress) An 11-year-old boy from Kampong Speu province has tragically succumbed to H5N1 human avian influenza, marking the fourth recorded human fatality attributed to this virus in 2025, as reported by the country’s Ministry of Health in a recent press release.
According to the statement, a laboratory analysis conducted by the Pasteur Institute of Cambodia confirmed the boy's positive diagnosis for the H5N1 virus on May 27, 2025.
The unfortunate child resided in the village of Srey Sampoung within the Samraong Tong district.
Investigations have revealed that chickens and ducks in the vicinity of the victim's home had fallen ill and died approximately a week before his own illness onset.
The health authorities are actively investigating the origin of the infection and are scrutinizing any suspected cases or individuals who had contact with the boy, aiming to avert a community outbreak.
This year, Cambodia has recorded four cases of human H5N1, all resulting in fatalities, with each patient having a documented history of exposure to sick or deceased poultry prior to their illness onset, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
H5N1 influenza is primarily a virus that transmits among sick poultry but can occasionally infect humans. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and severe respiratory issues.
The Ministry of Health has urged the public to exercise heightened caution and refrain from consuming sick or dead poultry, emphasizing that the threat of bird flu continues to pose risks to public health.
From 2003 to the present, there have been 76 cases of human infections with the H5N1 influenza virus in the country, resulting in 47 deaths, according to official data.
Since 2022, there have been rising reports of lethal outbreaks among mammals caused by influenza A(H5) viruses, including influenza A(H5N1). Many outbreaks may remain undetected, affecting both land and marine mammals, such as farmed fur animals, seals, sea lions, and various wild and domestic species.
Almost all human cases of H5N1 virus infection have occurred in individuals who had close contact with infected live or deceased birds or environments contaminated with the virus, such as live bird markets. There have also been rare instances of transmission from infected mammals to humans.
Point of View
We recognize the gravity of the recent H5N1 bird flu cases in Cambodia. With four fatalities reported in 2025 alone, it is crucial for the Ministry of Health and local authorities to take decisive actions to prevent further infections. Public awareness and vigilance are paramount in combating the threat of avian influenza, and we must remain unified in our efforts to safeguard public health.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is H5N1 bird flu?
H5N1 bird flu is a viral infection primarily affecting birds but can occasionally infect humans, leading to severe respiratory illness.
How is H5N1 transmitted to humans?
Transmission to humans typically occurs through close contact with infected live or dead birds or contaminated environments.
What are the symptoms of H5N1 infection?
Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and severe respiratory complications.
What has been done to prevent further outbreaks?
Health authorities are investigating the source of infections and monitoring suspected cases to prevent community outbreaks.
How many H5N1 cases have been reported in Cambodia?
Since 2003, Cambodia has reported 76 human infections of H5N1, with 47 fatalities.
