First Confirmed Death From Bird Flu 2024 (H5N2)
Image credit: Rastrojo (D•ES), CC BY-SA 4.0
According to an emergency report from the World Health Organization, a 59 year old man in Mexico has become the first confirmed death caused by the H5N2 virus, also known as Bird Flu or Avian Flu.
Bird Flu Symptoms
The patient presented the following symptoms of bird flu prior to death:
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- General malaise (discomfort)
Global Status
This is the first laboratory-confirmed human case of infection with the influenza A (H5N2) virus (Bird Flu) in the world, and the first human case of a virus from the H5 family in Mexico.
Bird Flu Health Advice
The World Health Organization, as of June 5th, 2024, is encouraging precautions among travelers with regards to Bird Flu. Travelers to countries with known cases of animal influenza should avoid the following:
- Traveling to farms
- Entering markets where live animals may be present
- Entering areas where animals may be slaughtered
- Contact with any surfaces which may have been exposed to animal faeces
Additionally, travelers are encouraged to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, and follow good food safety and hygeine practices. Check here for a complete list of supplies to prepare for a bird flu outbreak in your area.
Updates
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