H9N2 Bird Flu Detected In Child From West Bengal, India

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported a case of human with bird flu caused by the H9N2. The case involved four-year-old child in West Bengal. This is the second recorded incident of H9N2 infection in India, with the first occurring in 2019.

The child was admitted to the pediatric ICU of a local hospital in February. Symptoms included severe respiratory issues, high fever, and abdominal cramps. After three months of diagnosis and treatment, the child was discharged.

The WHO noted that the child had exposure to poultry at home and in the surroundings. No other family members or contacts reported respiratory illness symptoms. Information on the child's vaccination status and antiviral treatment details were not available.

Previous Cases and Virus Prevalence

The H9N2 virus usually causes mild illness. However, the WHO warned that sporadic human cases could continue. This virus is prevalent in poultry across various regions.

The Indian health ministry has not provided an immediate response. Sectors UpClose: Health care without the health warnings. The video player is currently playing an ad.

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