Cambodia reports human H5N1 avian influenza case in Prey Veng province
The first case of 2024
The Cambodia Ministry of Health reports a human case of H5N1 avian influenza in a 3-year-old boy from Ta Bruy village, Prek Poun commune, Kampong Trabek district, Prey Veng province in the southeastern part of the country.
The patient is currently hospitalized in intensive care.
Epidemiological investigation found that chickens and ducks had died in the patient’s village and around his house about 10 days ago.
The ministry said a team of health experts is investigating the source of the infection and are examining any suspected cases or people who have been in contact with the patient in order to prevent an outbreak in the community.
Animal influenza viruses normally circulate in animals but can also infect humans. Infections in humans have primarily been acquired through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. Depending on the original host, influenza A viruses can be classified as avian influenza, swine influenza, or other types of animal influenza viruses.
Avian, swine, and other animal influenza virus infections in humans may cause disease ranging from mild upper respiratory tract infection to more severe diseases and can be fatal. Conjunctivitis, gastrointestinal symptoms, encephalitis and encephalopathy have also been reported. There have also been several detections of A(H5N1) virus in asymptomatic persons but who had exposure to infected birds in the days before a sample was collected.
In 2023, Cambodia reported six cases of human infection with influenza A(H5N1).
From 2003 until now, 63 cases of human infection with influenza A(H5N1), including 41 deaths, have been reported from Cambodia.
