- H5N2 kills 59-year-old man in Mexico
- World Health Organization closely monitor flu strains
- Certain wild mammals like seals and foxes are also susceptible.
A 59-year-old man in Mexico has passed away after contracting a previously unknown strain of bird flu, H5N2.
Health officials emphasize there’s no danger to the general public.
The man, already battling other health issues, had been bedridden for weeks before developing bird flu symptoms, including fever and shortness of breath. Authorities believe his pre-existing health conditions likely made him more susceptible.
While bird flu can occasionally jump from animals to humans, there’s no evidence this strain can spread person-to-person. However, health organizations like the World Health Organization closely monitor flu strains with mutation potential to prevent future threats.
Understanding Bird Flu
Bird flu encompasses various types, primarily affecting birds. Certain wild mammals like seals and foxes are also susceptible. While human cases are documented, recovery is usually expected.
Recently, outbreaks of H5N1 bird flu impacted dairy cows in the US, leading to a few human infections. Meanwhile, the UK declared itself bird-flu-free after successfully containing outbreaks in poultry.
Expert Opinions
Professor Ian Brown of the Pirbright Institute finds the swift response by healthcare workers towards the man’s family and contacts reassuring, suggesting this is likely an isolated case.
Dr. Ed Hutchinson from the University of Glasgow believes the man likely contracted the virus directly from an infected animal.
He emphasizes the importance of ongoing surveillance, including testing potential contacts for signs of immune response to the virus. Should more human infections emerge, further concern would be warranted.
