One Case of Human Infection with H5N6 Virus in China is Reported to WHO

On Feb. 23, 2015, the Department of Health, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), China notified the World Health Organization (WHO) of one additional laboratory-confirmed case of human infection with avian influenza A(H7N9) virus.

A 61-year-old man from Hong Kong SAR developed symptoms on Feb. 16 and consulted a private doctor on the same day. He was admitted to a hospital on Feb. 20. The patient traveled to Zhangmutou, Dongguan, Guangdong, Feb. 6-8 and Feb. 14-15. He visited a wet market on Feb. 14 and bought two slaughtered chickens. Based on the available information, it is considered that the patient was infected outside Hong Kong. Currently, he is in critical condition.

The Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong is tracing the contacts of the patient.

WHO continues to closely monitor the H7N9 situation and conduct risk assessment. So far, the overall risk associated with the H7N9 virus has not changed.

WHO advises that travelers to countries with known outbreaks of avian influenza should avoid poultry farms, or contact with animals in live bird markets, or entering areas where poultry may be slaughtered, or contact with any surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from poultry or other animals. Travelers should also wash their hands often with soap and water. Travellers should follow good food safety and good food hygiene practices.

WHO does not advise special screening at points of entry with regard to this event, nor does it currently recommend any travel or trade restrictions. As always, a diagnosis of infection with an avian influenza virus should be considered in individuals who develop severe acute respiratory symptoms while travelling or soon after returning from an area where avian influenza is a concern.

WHO encourages countries to continue strengthening influenza surveillance, including surveillance for severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) and to carefully review any unusual patterns, in order to ensure reporting of human infections under the IHR (2005), and continue national health preparedness actions.

Source: WHO