Phnom Penh, March 24 (NationPress) A three-and-a-half-year-old boy from northeast Cambodia's Kratie province succumbed to H5N1 human avian influenza, representing the third human fatality from the virus this year, according to a statement from the Ministry of Health.

Despite receiving intensive medical treatment, the boy passed away on Sunday, just a day after being admitted in critical condition. The statement indicated that he exhibited symptoms such as fever, cough, and dyspnea.

The unfortunate child was a resident of Prek Ta Aim in Chetr Borei district's Bos Leav commune.

As per inquiries, the boy's family owned chickens, with approximately five having died and several others displaying signs of illness. Additionally, family members had prepared the deceased poultry for meals, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.

Health authorities are currently investigating the infection's source and monitoring any suspected cases or individuals who interacted with the patient to avert a community outbreak.

Last month, a two-year-and-seven-month-old boy from southeast Cambodia's Prey Veng province also died from H5N1 avian influenza, marking the second fatality in 2025.

This toddler resided in Ta Ngak village of Preah Sdach district's Romchek commune.

Inquiries revealed that the family operated a chicken farm where about 15 chickens had perished, with others falling ill. The boy often slept and played near a chicken coop beneath their stilt house, according to a health ministry statement.

H5N1 influenza typically spreads among sick poultry but can occasionally transmit to humans. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and severe respiratory illness.

The Ministry of Health warned that bird flu remains a health threat, especially to children, urging the public to refrain from consuming sick or deceased poultry.

Since 2003, there have been 75 reported cases of human infection with H5N1 influenza, leading to 46 fatalities in this Southeast Asian nation, as stated by the ministry.