Bird flu has been a matter of concern all over the world for the last few days. While several cases of humans infected with bird flu have been reported in the US, a person has died for the first time in Mexico due to the subtype of influenza A (H9N2) virus of this virus. Meanwhile, a case of this virus has also been reported in India.
The WHO said that they have no information about the antiviral treatment given to the child as well as his vaccination status.
Case reported from West Bengal
India’s International Health Regulation (IHR) National Focal Point (NFP) on May 22 informed WHO about a case of human infection with avian influenza A (H9N2) virus in a 4-year-old child living in the state of West Bengal. The child was first diagnosed with hyperreactive airway disease. He was first taken to the doctor on January 26 after complaining of fever and abdominal pain. After this, on February 2, the patient was found to be influenza B and adenovirus positive in the Virus Research and Diagnostic Lab at the local government hospital.
Second case of bird flu in India
After this, he was discharged from the hospital on February 28, but on March 3, he was referred to another government hospital due to serious respiratory problems. After this, after several tests, the patient was found infected with the influenza A (H9N2) virus. According to WHO, the patient had contact with nearby poultry. Let us tell you that this is the second human infection of H9N2 bird flu in India. Earlier, its first case was found in the year 2019.
How does the animal influenza virus spread?
Animal influenza virus usually spreads in animals, but it can also infect humans. Infection in humans spreads mainly through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. According to the International Health Regulations (IHR), a human infection caused by a new influenza A virus subtype is a case that is likely to have a serious public health impact and should be reported to the World Health Organization.
