Cambodia Confirms Third Human H5N1 Case Amid Bird Flu Concerns

[geovalin]

Cambodian gvt

 

A three-year-and-six-month-old boy from Kratie province, northeast Cambodia, has tested positive for H5N1 avian influenza, the country's Ministry of Health confirmed on Sunday. This marks the third human case reported in Cambodia this year.

 

The child was admitted to hospital in critical condition, suffering from fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. He is currently receiving intensive medical care from a specialist team.

 

Health officials revealed that the boy’s family kept chickens, and several had died or fallen ill before the child’s infection. Some of the dead poultry had been consumed by the family, potentially exposing them to the virus.

 

Authorities are now investigating the source of the infection and tracking individuals who may have been in contact with the patient to prevent further spread. Of the three H5N1 cases recorded in Cambodia this year, two have been fatal, with all patients having had direct exposure to sick or dead poultry.

 

H5N1 primarily spreads among birds but can occasionally infect humans, causing severe respiratory symptoms. Since 2003, Cambodia has recorded 75 human cases, 45 of which have been fatal.

 

Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent a wider outbreak.

 

-2025-03-24