Cambodia detects more human cases of H5N1 bird flu

The National Institute of Public Health and the Pasteur Institute of Cambodia confirmed this case on August 3, bringing the total number of human infections with the H5N1 virus in the country since the beginning of the year to nine.

The Cambodian Ministry of Health press release said the patient had symptoms of fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue and difficulty breathing. The patient's condition is currently very serious and is receiving intensive care. Epidemiological investigation results showed that the patient had contact with many dead chickens four days before the onset of the disease.

Response efforts include tracing the source of infection in both animals and humans; identifying and monitoring suspected cases; and administering Tamiflu to people who have had contact with infected poultry. Additionally, health education campaigns are being conducted in affected villages to prevent the spread of the pathogen.

Previously, on August 2, the Cambodian Ministry of Health confirmed that a 4-year-old boy also in Svay Rieng province, in the Southeast of the country, tested positive for the H5N1 bird flu virus.

According to local health officials, seven of the nine cases of H5N1 bird flu so far this year have been children, and all had a history of close contact with sick poultry. The H5N1 virus is usually spread between sick birds but can sometimes be transmitted to humans, with common symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose and severe respiratory illness.

The Cambodian Ministry of Health assessed that bird flu remains a threat to people's health, especially children; and called on people not to eat dead or infected poultry.

Since 2003, Cambodia has recorded 71 people infected with H5N1 flu, including 42 deaths.