After the entire planet suffered the consequences of a virus such as covid-19, the World Health Organization (WHO) The new flu variants that are reported in different countries are taken very seriously.
That is why this organization closely follows a variant of the bird flu that killed a man in Mexico, it is H5N2.
“This is the first human case confirmed by influenza A (H5N2) virus infection laboratory reported worldwide and the first infection by the H5 avian virus in a person reported in Mexico,” the WHO said.
What symptoms does H5N2 bird flu give?
According to the report published by the WHO, this virus, which normally circulates among animals, can also infect humans.
Infections in humans have been acquired mainly through direct contact with animals infected or contaminated environments.
Avian influenza virus infections in humans can cause upper respiratory tract infections from mild to severe and can be fatal. Conjunctivitis, gastrointestinal symptoms, encephalitis, and encephalopathy have also been reported.
In the case of the man who died from this infection, the Mexican health authorities reported the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- General discomfort
On April 24, this first case sought medical attention, was hospitalized in the State of Mexico and died that same day due to complications of his condition.
The WHO reported that of the 17 contacts identified and followed at the hospital where the case diedone reported a runny nose between April 28 and 29.
Samples taken from these hospital contacts between May 27 and 29 tested negative for influenza and SARS-CoV 2. Twelve additional contacts (seven symptomatic and five asymptomatic) were identified near the case’s residence.
It should be noted that laboratory tests are required to diagnose human influenza infection.
“Evidence suggests that some antiviral medications, in particular neuraminidase inhibitors (oseltamivir, zanamivir), may reduce the duration of viral replication and improve survival prospects in some cases,” the WHO said.
