Mexico City – A new strain of bird flu has crossed over to humans, triggering concerns over its potential impact on public health, as warned by the World Health Organization. The organization highlighted the case of a 59-year-old man in Mexico who succumbed to the illness after a seven-day battle marked by symptoms of fever, shortness of breath, diarrhea, and nausea.
Health officials confirmed that the man was infected with the H5N2 strain, a first-time detection in humans. This strain differs from H5N1, which has caused outbreaks in cattle and affected several individuals in the US this year. Despite the man’s lack of exposure to poultry or animals, the source of his infection remains unclear.
While authorities assessed the public health risk as low due to the absence of transmission to others and the patient’s underlying medical conditions, they emphasized the potential consequences of a novel bird flu virus infecting humans. The patient, residing in Mexico City, delayed seeking medical attention until a week after falling ill on April 17, leading to fatal complications upon admission to the hospital.
The incident underscores the ongoing threat posed by emerging infectious diseases and the need for vigilance in monitoring and responding to such outbreaks. Global health organizations continue to work towards preventing the spread of zoonotic diseases and improving preparedness for potential pandemics. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of timely intervention and cooperation in addressing public health emergencies.