China reports two additional human H9N2 avian influenza cases
Chinese health officials report two new human infections with avian influenza A(H9N2) in Sichuan province.
The cases include a one-year-old boy and a 74-year-old woman who had onset of mild symptoms on 14 and 5 November 2023, respectively.
Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is a viral infection that primarily affects birds. Among the various subtypes, the H9N2 avian influenza virus has gained attention due to its ability to infect a wide range of bird species and occasional transmission to humans.
In poultry, H9N2 infections can range from asymptomatic to severe, depending on various factors such as the bird species, age, and the presence of other pathogens. Common symptoms in birds include respiratory distress, reduced egg production, and a drop in feed consumption. In humans, symptoms are similar to those of other influenza viruses and may include fever, cough, sore throat, and difficulty breathing.
Emerging Pathogens: A Look Toward 2024
Since 1998, a total of 130 laboratory-confirmed cases of human infection with avian influenza A(H9N2) viruses, including two deaths, have been reported in eight countries: China (117), Egypt (4), Bangladesh (3), Cambodia (2), Oman (1), Pakistan (1), India (1) and Senegal (1). Most of the cases were children with mild disease.
To prevent influenza A infection, health officials urge the public to pay attention to the following:
Avoid going to markets and farms where there are many people and where there are outbreaks of avian influenza A, where poultry is sold or displayed;
Avoid contact with sick people, birds or other animals and their secretions and excrement; if there is contact, wash hands immediately;
Do not eat undercooked poultry meat, offal, blood products and eggs;
Pay attention to personal hygiene and wash your hands frequently;
If you have symptoms such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, you should wear a mask, seek medical attention as soon as possible, and report your travel history and animal contact history to the doctor.