China reports additional human H5N6 avian influenza case, this one in Sichuan Province
China reports additional human H5N6 avian influenza case, this one in Sichuan Province
Chinese officials, albeit belatedly, reported an additional human case of avian influenza A(H5N6).
The patient is a 59-year-old female living in Ziyang City in Sichuan Province, who had visited a live poultry market before the onset of symptoms. She developed symptoms on November 25 last year and was admitted for treatment on November 29 with serious condition.
From 2014 to date, 89 human cases of avian influenza A(H5N6) have been reported by Mainland health authorities.
Avian influenza is caused by those influenza viruses that mainly affect birds and poultry, such as chickens or ducks. Clinical presentation of avian influenza in humans may range from flu-like symptoms (e.g. fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches) to severe respiratory illness (e.g. chest infection). Eye infection (conjunctivitis) and gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g. nausea, vomiting and diarrhea) have also been reported.
The incubation period ranges from 7 to 10 days. The more virulent forms can result in respiratory failure, multi-organ failure and even death.