The World Health Organization announces the first human case of H5N2 bird flu identified in Mexico.
The H5N1 and H5N2 strains of influenza A virus have mainly affected birds worldwide, leading to the infection of numerous flocks. Since 1996, over 900 human cases of H5N1 have been reported, with around half of those infected succumbing to the disease. On a recent Wednesday, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported the first case of human infection with H5N2 in a 59-year-old Mexican resident.
The infection's source remains a mystery, although WHO pointed out that H5N2 viruses had been discovered in Mexican poultry.
Owing to the potential public health implications of any new influenza A infection in humans, WHO requires such cases to be reported. Based on current information, the risk to the general public from H5N2 is considered low since other H5 subtypes have been found to infect humans, yet none of these has demonstrated the capability for sustained human-to-human transmission.
This individual, who suffered from multiple pre-existing medical conditions, had been bedridden for three weeks due to other ailments before experiencing new symptoms. Beginning in mid-April, they developed fever, shortness of breath, diarrhea, nausea, and fatigue. On April 24th, they sought medical assistance and were hospitalized at the National Institute of Respiratory Diseases in Mexico City. The person ultimately passed away due to complications that day.
On May 8th, a sample was analyzed for specific testing that revealed a positive result for H5N2, which was later verified by a different laboratory.
Out of 17 individuals at the hospital who were in contact with the patient, no additional infected people were identified. 12 additional contacts were also identified in the vicinity of the patient's residence, with 7 of them exhibiting symptoms. However, tests of samples from these cases did not detect Covid-19 or any kind of flu virus. Researchers are currently analyzing blood samples to ascertain whether they can identify any antibodies indicative of past infections.
In March, an H5N2 outbreak was recorded at a backyard poultry farm in a neighboring state, and it has not been determined whether this case is associated with the recent poultry outbreaks.
Influenza A viruses are prevalent among birds and can sporadically infect other species, including humans. People usually contract the viruses by coming into direct contact with infected animals or contaminated environments.
The classification of type A flu strains can vary depending on the original host, with various subtypes being designated as bird flu, swine flu, or other forms of animal influenza viruses.
Bird flu infections in humans can result in a wide range of symptoms, from mild upper respiratory infections to fatal illnesses. In addition to respiratory issues, eye infections like conjunctivitis, gastrointestinal symptoms, and brain swelling could also occur.
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The World Health Organization is investigating the source of the H5N2 virus in the recent human case in Mexico, as H5N2 viruses were also discovered in Mexican poultry. Due to the multiple pre-existing medical conditions of the infected individual, their ability to transmit the virus to others is currently unknown.
