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Italy Diagnoses Rare Bird Flu Strain
13 Apr
Summary
- First A(H9N2) bird flu subtype imported into Europe confirmed in Italy.
- Patient recently returned from Senegal; no known exposure to poultry.
- WHO warns of potential high public health impact despite low population risk.
Health authorities are on high alert in Italy following the diagnosis of a high-risk bird flu strain, A(H9N2). This marks the first confirmed importation of this specific subtype into Europe. The affected individual is an adult male who had recently spent six months in Senegal before developing a fever and cough upon arrival in Italy.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the human infection by a novel influenza A virus subtype as an event with potential for high public health impact, necessitating notification. While the WHO assesses the immediate risk to the general population as low, they emphasize that vigilance is crucial. Close contacts in both Italy and Senegal have been traced and are under surveillance, with some receiving preventive treatment.
Experts advise avoiding contact with high-risk environments like live animal markets and practicing good hygiene. Symptoms of bird flu can range from mild respiratory issues to severe illness and death. The patient also tested positive for tuberculosis and was isolated to contain the virus.
