Is Cambodia Facing a Rising Threat with the Seventh Human Case of H5N1 Bird Flu?
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Synopsis
A concerning rise in H5N1 bird flu cases has been reported in Cambodia, with the Ministry of Health confirming a seventh case in a 41-year-old woman. With symptoms worsening, authorities are on high alert to prevent further outbreaks. Explore the implications and health measures being implemented in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Seventh human case of H5N1 reported in Cambodia.
- Patient in critical condition and showing severe symptoms.
- Health authorities investigating sources of infection.
- Tamiflu distributed to those in contact with the patient.
- Overall, 79 cases and 48 deaths recorded since 2003.
Phnom Penh, June 24 (NationPress) A 41-year-old woman from northwestern Cambodia's Siem Reap province has been diagnosed with H5N1 human avian influenza, bringing the total cases this year to seven, according to a statement from the Ministry of Health.
On June 23, a laboratory result from the National Institute of Public Health confirmed that the woman tested positive for the H5N1 virus, the statement revealed late Monday.
The patient is exhibiting symptoms such as fever, cough, and dyspnea, and her condition is currently described as critical.
Reports indicate that there were sick and dead chickens in both her home and neighboring residences, and the woman had handled these infected chickens, even cooking them for consumption five days prior to feeling unwell.
Health authorities are actively investigating the origin of the infection and are assessing any potential cases or individuals who have had contact with the patient to avert a wider outbreak.
The antiviral medication Tamiflu (oseltamivir) has been distributed to those who had close contact with the patient, as stated in the report.
As of this year, Cambodia has reported seven human cases of H5N1 bird flu, with a grim tally of five fatalities.
Since 2003, there have been a total of 79 human infections related to H5N1 influenza in Southeast Asia, resulting in 48 deaths, according to the ministry and reported by Xinhua.
While bird flu is rarely transmitted between humans, there have been isolated instances of human-to-human transmission, but none have occurred in the United States. Typically, human infections arise from contact with infected animals. However, any human infection poses a risk of the virus mutating to enable easier transmission among people.
Humans can contract bird flu by coming into contact with an infected animal's bodily fluids, which may include saliva, respiratory droplets, or feces. The virus can also be inhaled from dust particles in animal settings or enter the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth after touching contaminated surfaces.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the seriousness of the situation in Cambodia. The government is taking proactive measures to address the H5N1 bird flu cases with urgency. Public health must remain a priority, and transparent communication is essential to maintain public trust and safety.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is H5N1 bird flu?
H5N1 bird flu is a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus that can infect humans and is primarily transmitted through contact with infected birds.
How is H5N1 transmitted to humans?
Humans typically contract H5N1 through contact with infected birds or their bodily fluids, including saliva and feces.
What are the symptoms of H5N1 in humans?
Symptoms include fever, cough, dyspnea, and in severe cases, respiratory failure and death.
What measures are being taken to control the outbreak?
Health authorities are investigating the source of infection, monitoring those who have been in contact with the patient, and distributing antiviral medications.
Is bird flu contagious among humans?
Bird flu is not easily transmitted from person to person but there have been rare instances of human-to-human transmission.
