"Mexico Bird Flu Fatality Reported by WHO"

Boston Brand Media brings you the latest - The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed a case of bird flu resulting in death in Mexico. This announcement underscores the global concern over potential outbreaks of infectious diseases. The incident highlights the ongoing efforts by health authorities to monitor and respond to emerging health threats. The confirmation serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in combating infectious diseases to safeguard public health worldwide.

June 5 (Reuters) - A Mexico resident, aged 59, who had pre-existing health issues and was infected with bird flu, passed away in April. The World Health Organization reported this on Wednesday, noting that the origin of the virus exposure remained unidentified. According to WHO, the individual, who hailed from the State of Mexico, was admitted to a hospital in Mexico City and succumbed on April 24. Symptoms included fever, respiratory distress, gastrointestinal problems, and overall unease. WHO reassured that the general risk of bird flu transmission to the populace is minimal.

In a statement, WHO mentioned that while the source of virus exposure remains uncertain, A(H5N2) viruses have been detected in Mexican poultry. This case marks the world's inaugural confirmed instance of human infection with an influenza A(H5N2) virus and the first report of an avian H5 virus affecting a person in Mexico, as per WHO. Scientists clarified that this incident is not linked to the H5N1 bird flu outbreak in the United States, which has affected three dairy farm employees thus far.

Boston Brand Media also found that the Health Ministry of Mexico additionally stated in a release that they have not determined the source of infection. The individual affected had no known contact with poultry or other animals. However, the victim had several pre-existing medical conditions and had been immobile for three weeks before experiencing acute symptoms, according to WHO. The Health Ministry of Mexico specified that the individual had chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes.

Andrew Pekosz, an influenza specialist at Johns Hopkins University, emphasized that having underlying health conditions significantly heightens the risk of severe influenza, even with the seasonal flu. However, he highlighted that the manner in which this individual contracted the virus remains unclear, a crucial aspect insufficiently addressed in the initial report.

In March, the Mexican government disclosed an A(H5N2) outbreak within a confined family setting in Michoacan state in the country's western region. Authorities asserted that these cases posed no threat to remote commercial farms or human health.

Following the April fatality, Mexican authorities confirmed the virus's presence and promptly notified the WHO, as reported by the agency. The Health Ministry of Mexico assured that there was no evidence of person-to-person transmission, with farms in proximity to the victim's residence under surveillance. Individuals in close contact with the victim tested negative for bird flu, confirmed both the health ministry and WHO.

Bird flu has been observed to infect mammals like seals, raccoons, bears, and cattle, primarily through contact with infected birds. Scientists remain vigilant for any mutations in the virus that might indicate an increased ability to spread among humans.

While the strain causing the Mexican fatality differs from the one afflicting U.S. cattle, both belong to the H5 avian virus family. Pekosz noted that since 1997, H5 viruses have exhibited a tendency to infect mammals more readily than other avian flu strains. He emphasized the need for vigilant monitoring, as each spillover event presents an opportunity for the virus to accumulate mutations that enhance human infectivity.

Australia reported its inaugural human A(H5N1) infection in May, without any signs of transmission. However, the nation identified more cases of H7 bird flu among poultry farms in Victoria state.

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Source: REUTERS‍