United States: Health authorities in western Mexico have confirmed the country’s first human case of avian influenza (H5N1), after a 3-year-old girl from Durango died from virus-related respiratory complications. The girl passed away early Tuesday while receiving hospital care in Coahuila, a neighboring state, as reported by HealthDay.
Cause of Infection Still Unclear
Officials are still unsure how the young patient contracted the virus. Investigators are currently testing wild birds near her home to determine if they were the source of transmission.
No Evidence of Human Spread
In response to the case, health authorities tested 38 individuals who had contact with the girl. All tested negative for H5N1. Officials stated the likelihood of further human infections remains low at this time.
H5N1 a Global Concern
The highly pathogenic Type A H5N1 virus continues to spread among both animals and humans in various parts of the world. According to the World Health Organization, 70 human cases have been reported in the United States over the past year, though experts believe many infections may go undetected, as reported by HealthDay.
Health Monitoring Continues
Mexico’s Health Ministry and international health partners are continuing investigations and monitoring for potential cases. Public health officials stress that while this case is concerning, current evidence does not suggest a wider outbreak among humans.