Human H5N1 Cases in Cambodia Raise Concerns, Health Authorities on High Alert

Ganeva – The Ministry of Health of Cambodia notified the World Health Organization (WHO) of two confirmed cases of human infection with influenza A(H5N1) from the same village in Kampot Province between 24 and 25 November 2023.

Both cases were female, one in the 20-25 years age group and the other less than five years old, the agency said on Wednesday.

The first reported case visited a public hospital four days after having symptoms of fever, shortness of breath and cough. 

Samples were collected, which tested positive for H5N1, and the case died while in hospital.

The second reported case was detected during enhanced surveillance by the public health authorities in response to the confirmation of the first reported case. 

The case had fever, cough and rash and is currently being treated in hospital. Epidemiological investigation shows both cases had exposure to backyard birds, which were reported to be sick, with some having died, over the prior month. 

The Ministry of Health’s national and sub-national rapid response teams are investigating the source of the infection and coordinating response activities, including but not limited to active surveillance for additional cases, identifying close contacts for monitoring, and conducting health education campaigns to prevent transmission in the community. 

In total, six cases of influenza A(H5N1) have been reported from Cambodia this year. 

Influenza A(H5N1) infection in humans can cause severe disease, has a high mortality rate, and is notifiable under the International Health Regulations (2005).

WHO has stressed the importance of global surveillance to detect and monitor virological, epidemiological, and clinical changes associated with emerging or circulating influenza viruses that may affect human (or animal) health and timely virus sharing for risk assessment.

“The public should avoid contact with high-risk environments such as live animal markets/farms and live poultry, or surfaces that might be contaminated by poultry droppings. Additionally, it is recommended to maintain good hand hygiene with frequent washing or the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer,” it said. 

“The general public and at-risk individuals should immediately report instances of sick or unexpected deaths in animals to veterinary authorities. Consumption of poultry or wild birds that are sick or have died unexpectedly should be avoided.” It added. 

WHO has also advised against implementation of any travel or trade restrictions based on the current information available on this event. 

“WHO does not advise special traveler screening at points of entry or other restrictions due to the current situation of influenza viruses at the human-animal interface.”