New case of H5N1 bird flu reported in Cambodia: Know tips to stay safe
A four-year-old boy in Cambodia’s Svay Rieng province has tested positive for H5N1 bird flu, bringing the total number of cases in 2024 to eight. The boy had come into contact with an infected chicken. Seven of these cases have been in children, one of whom has died. Read on to learn tips on how to protect yourself from H5N1.
New case of H5N1 bird flu detected in Cambodia (Image courtesy: iStock)
A new case of H5N1 bird flu According to a statement from the Ministry of Health, a four-year-old boy from Svay Rieng province in southeastern Cambodia has tested positive for the virus, the eighth human case in the country since the start of 2024. Laboratory tests conducted by the National Institute of Public Health on Tuesday confirmed that the boy was infected with the virus. H5N1 virus,
The child, who lives in Chrong Popel village in Romeas Hek district, showed symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath and drowsiness. He is currently recovering under intensive care provided by a team of doctors, reports Xinhua news agency.
The statement revealed that about 12 days before the boy’s illness, several chickens and ducks died in his village and home. The boy’s family cooked these dead birds for food, bringing him into direct contact with the infected chickens. Health officials are now investigating the source of the infection and monitoring everyone who came in contact with the infected child to prevent a possible outbreak.
Of the eight H5N1 bird flu cases reported in Cambodia this year, seven involved children, one of whom died, and one case involved an adult. All cases had a history of recent exposure to sick or dead chickens. The H5N1 influenza virus usually spreads among sick chickens, but can sometimes spread from birds to humans, posing a serious threat to public health. Health officials are monitoring the situation and implementing measures to prevent further infections.
Tips to stay safe from H5N1 bird flu
To stay safe from H5N1 bird flu, it’s important to take precautions to avoid coming into contact with the virus, especially in areas where there has been an outbreak. Here are some important tips:
– Avoid contact with poultry: Do not touch live or dead birds, especially if they look sick. This includes avoiding markets where live poultry is sold.
– Cook poultry thoroughly: Make sure all poultry and eggs are cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Avoid consuming undercooked or raw poultry products.
– Practice good hygiene: wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling poultry or eggs. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
– Use protective gear: If you must handle birds, wear protective clothing, gloves and a mask to reduce the risk of infection.
– Watch for symptoms: Be alert for symptoms such as fever, cough and difficulty breathing, especially after coming in contact with birds. Consult a doctor if symptoms appear.
– Stay informed: Follow public health advice and updates from health officials regarding the H5N1 outbreak and vaccination recommendations.
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