WHO Confirms Bird Flu Case In India: Symptoms And Precautions You Need To Know

A human case of bird flu in India was confirmed by the World Health Organization (WHO), with the infection caused by the H9N2 virus detected in a four-year-old child in West Bengal, as stated by the health body, on Tuesday.

The child, who had been struggling with persistent severe respiratory issues, has been admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (ICU) of a local hospital.

WHO Confirms Bird Flu Case In India

This marks the second H9N2 bird flu case in India, with the first reported back in 2019. Additionally, a two-and-a-half-year-old girl tested positive for H5N1 bird flu on June 7 and was admitted to an intensive care unit in Australia after recently travelling to India, as reported by NDTV.

Further insights into H9N2 Bird Flu reveal that it is caused by infection with avian (bird) influenza (flu) Type A viruses, as per WHO. While it primarily transfers among animals, it can also infect humans, spreading through direct contact with infected animals or indirect contact with contaminated environments.

According to WHO, influenza A viruses, depending on the original host, can be classified as avian influenza, swine influenza, or other types of animal influenza viruses. Symptoms of Avian Influenza virus infection range from mild upper respiratory tract infections to more severe diseases, with additional symptoms including conjunctivitis, gastrointestinal symptoms, encephalitis, and encephalopathy, as highlighted by WHO. Avian Influenza virus infection can also potentially be fatal, as per media reports.

Diagnosis of Avian Influenza virus infection in humans requires laboratory tests, according to WHO, which periodically updates technical guidance protocols for the detection of zoonotic influenza using molecular methods. Prevention measures suggested by WHO include minimizing contact with animals in areas known to be affected by animal influenza viruses, such as farms and settings where live animals may be sold or slaughtered.

Maintaining personal and hand hygiene, including washing hands with soap before and after contact with animals, is also emphasized to avoid infection by the virus.