The second case of human infection with bird flu has been reported in West Bengal. The World Health Organization announced on Tuesday that a four-year-old boy in West Bengal, India, has been diagnosed with bird flu caused by the H9H2 virus. The child, who experienced breathing difficulties, high fever, and stomach cramps, received treatment in the ICU of a local hospital for three months before being discharged.
The WHO stated that the boy had been in contact with poultry in his home and surrounding areas. However, neither the boy's family nor individuals who had contact with him reported any respiratory issues. The organization mentioned that they currently do not possess information regarding the patient's vaccination and treatment history.
In 2019, the first case of human bird flu infection in India was documented, with no response received from the Ministry of Health to date. Additionally, a recent case of bird flu infection in America was reported, marking the second case in the country. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) disclosed that a farmer in Michigan had contracted the virus, likely due to regular exposure to infected birds or avian influenza.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that the farmer had contact with H5N1-infected cattle and was under observation. The CDC conducted tests on samples taken from the farmer's nose and eye, which confirmed H5 virus infection in the eye sample. Subsequent tests on the nasal sample at the CDC yielded negative results for infection. MDHHS confirmed that the farmer has since recovered, declining to provide further details on the case.