A 59-year-old man in Mexico City has died from a strain of bird flu known as H5N2, a type that has never been previously found in humans, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The man's death has raised concerns as it is unclear how he became infected with the virus, although H5N2 has been detected in poultry in Mexico.
It is important to note that H5N2 is distinct from the strain H5N1, which has affected dairy cow herds in the United States. In a separate incident, three farmworkers in the U.S. have contracted mild infections from H5N1.
Bird flu, or avian influenza, encompasses various strains that can pose a threat to both animals and humans. In 2021, an outbreak of H5N6 in China resulted in the deaths of 18 individuals, highlighting the potential dangers of these viruses.
The Mexican health authorities notified the WHO about the man's case, revealing that he had no known exposure to poultry or other animals. The patient, who had underlying health conditions such as chronic kidney failure, diabetes, and high blood pressure, initially exhibited symptoms of fever, shortness of breath, and diarrhea before seeking hospital care on April 24. Tragically, he passed away on the same day.
Subsequent laboratory tests confirmed that the man had been infected with H5N2, a finding that has prompted heightened surveillance in Mexico. Despite testing individuals who had contact with the deceased, no additional human cases have been identified thus far.
Health authorities are closely monitoring poultry outbreaks in Mexico, particularly in regions where H5N2 has been detected. The concern lies in the potential for these bird flu viruses to evolve and potentially spread from animals to humans, posing a significant public health risk.
While the WHO has stated that the risk to the general population in Mexico remains low, vigilance and preventive measures are crucial to prevent any further spread of the virus.
