Fifth Cambodian Dies of Bird Flu as Health Fears Rise

KT

A 52-year-old man in Cambodia has died from the H5N1 strain of bird flu, marking the country’s fifth fatality from the virus this year, according to the Ministry of Health.

The victim, from Svay Rieng province in the southeast of the country, tested positive for the highly pathogenic virus on 20 June, the ministry confirmed in a statement on Saturday. The case brings the national tally to six human infections in 2025, five of which have been fatal.

Authorities are now racing to trace the source of the infection and identify anyone who may have come into contact with the deceased. Health workers have begun administering Tamiflu — an antiviral drug used to treat and contain the virus — to close contacts in an effort to prevent a possible outbreak.

“The Ministry is actively investigating the transmission route and closely monitoring anyone suspected of exposure,” the statement read.

Bird flu, or avian influenza, is typically transmitted from infected poultry to humans through close contact, though it rarely spreads between people. However, the high mortality rate in human cases continues to cause concern among health officials worldwide.

Cambodia has experienced sporadic H5N1 cases over the years, but the recent cluster of deaths has prompted fresh fears of wider transmission, particularly in rural areas where contact with poultry is frequent and healthcare access is limited.

The Ministry of Health has urged the public to remain cautious, avoid handling sick or dead birds, and report any suspected symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing to local health centres immediately.

Neighbouring countries have also stepped up surveillance, wary of cross-border risks in a region with dense bird populations and widespread informal poultry trading.

While the risk to the general public remains low, experts warn that swift containment and transparency are essential to avoid any repeat of past pandemics.

For now, Cambodia is on high alert — and the world is watching.

-2025-06-23