The outbreak of avian flu in Cambodia has raised concerns among global health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO).
An 11-year-old girl from the rural Prey Veng province was diagnosed with the H5N1 virus, which is known to cause severe illness and death in humans. Her father also tested positive, and 11 others were being tested. This is the first known human infection of the H5N1 strain in Cambodia since 2014.
The H5N1 virus is a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus that primarily affects birds but can also be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected birds or their excretions, or through the consumption of contaminated poultry products. The virus can cause severe respiratory illness in humans and has a mortality rate of around 60%.
Dr. Sylvie Briand, the director of the epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention at the WHO, expressed concern over the recent rise in cases of H5N1 in birds and mammals. The situation is described as "worrying," and all countries are urged to remain vigilant. The WHO is collaborating with the Cambodian government to address this issue.
Although the WHO considers the risk of H5N1 bird flu to humans to be minimal, the recent spread of the virus to mammals is concerning. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director-general of the WHO, emphasized the need to prepare for any change in the status quo.
Since the emergence of the H5N1 virus in 1996, the rare and non-sustained transmission of H5N1 to and between humans has been observed. However, the possibility of the virus spreading among humans cannot be ruled out, and it is crucial to take measures to prevent the further spread of the virus and ensure that proper monitoring is in place.
The collaboration between the WHO and the Cambodian government is an essential step in addressing this issue. The WHO is reviewing its global risk assessment in light of the recent developments and has urged all countries to remain vigilant and take appropriate measures to prevent the spread of the virus. It is essential to prepare for any change in the status quo and take measures to prevent the further spread of the H5N1 virus.
