Cambodia Reports 14th Human H5N1 Bird Flu Case This Year
Young Man Hospitalized with Severe Symptoms Following Poultry Exposure
Cambodia has confirmed its 14th human H5N1 avian influenza infection of 2025, as health officials closely monitor a 26-year-old man battling severe symptoms in intensive care.
Urgent Medical Care for Infected Patient
The man, residing in Kravan village, Siem Reap Province, received a positive test result for the virus on Saturday. Health authorities confirmed his condition on Monday, stating he is currently hospitalized and receiving intensive medical treatment. His symptoms include fever, a cough, sore throat, abdominal discomfort, and significant difficulty breathing.
Potential Link to Local Poultry Deaths
Investigations by health officials revealed dead chickens near the patient’s residence. Preliminary findings suggest the man had slaughtered chickens just three days prior to the onset of his symptoms, indicating a potential source of transmission. Authorities are actively collecting samples from individuals who had close contact with the infected man as part of their containment efforts.
Close contacts are being administered Tamiflu as a precautionary measure, a standard protocol implemented by Cambodian health officials following H5N1 detections to prevent further spread.
Global Context of Avian Influenza
The World Health Organization has reported over 880 human H5N1 cases globally since 2003, with a fatality rate of approximately 50% (World Health Organization). While human infections remain rare, they often result from direct or close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.
Health officials continue to urge the public to maintain vigilance and avoid contact with sick or dead poultry. Public health campaigns emphasize safe handling and cooking of poultry products to minimize the risk of transmission.
