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Avian Influenza (Human) in Cambodia

01 Feb 2013

The Ministry of Health for Cambodia has reported to WHO, 5 confirmed human cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) in 2013.

The first case, an 8-month-old boy from Phnom Penh province was admitted to hospital on 9 Jan 2013 where the infection was confirmed on 22 Jan; he has recovered.

The second case is a 15-year-old female from Takeo province who became unwell on the 11 Jan 2013 and died as a result on 21 Jan. The woman had prepared meat from infected poultry.

The third case is a 35-year-old man from Kampong Speu province who developed respiratory symptoms on 13 Jan 2013, and died as a result in hospital on 21 Jan. This case also handled infected poultry flesh.

The Ministry of Health reported two further cases to WHO; a 17-month-old girl from Kampong Speu province who died in hospital on 28 Jan 2013 and a 9-year-old girl from Kampot province who also died as a result of avian influenza infection on 28 Jan 2013. Sick poultry has been reported in the village of both girls.

Advice for Travellers

Avian influenza is an ongoing problem in Cambodia; travellers should be aware and take steps to minimise the risk.