21-Year-Old Student Succumbs To Bird Flu In Vietnam; Should You Be Concerned?

In Vietnam, a 21-year-old student tragically became the country’s first documented human casualty of avian influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu. The Vietnam’s Ministry of Health verified the fatality, stating that the student, enrolled at Nha Trang University, succumbed to the H5N1 subtype of the virus on March 23, 2024.

The Vietnam Ministry of Health provided details regarding the timeline of the patient’s influenza contraction posted on an infectious illness news blog, Avian Flu Diary. The student, residing in Tan Ninh village in Khanh Hoa province, began experiencing symptoms of fever and cough on March 11, 2024. Despite attempting self-treatment, the symptoms persisted. Subsequently, the patient sought medical attention at the Ninh Hoa Medical Center, where a diagnosis of pneumonia was made.

“On March 19, 2024, the Khanh Hoa Centre for Disease Control took patient samples for testing. According to test results on March 20, 2024, the patient was positive for influenza A/H5, and confirmation results from Nha Trang Pasteur Institute on March 22, 2024, determined that the patient was positive for influenza A (H5N1). Due to the serious progression of the disease, the patient died on March 23, 2024,” as per the statement.

In the wake of this tragic incident, health authorities are advocating for enhanced measures to prevent the transmission of avian flu to humans. Reports indicate that wild birds were trapped in the area during the Lunar New Year holiday, however, investigations revealed no signs of sick or deceased poultry near the student’s residence. Since January, several regions across Vietnam have experienced outbreaks of bird flu, underscoring the urgency for heightened vigilance and preventive actions.

What is H5N1 Influenza?

H5N1 is a strain of the influenza A virus, often referred to as avian influenza or bird flu. It primarily affects birds, particularly poultry, but can also infect humans. Notably, H5N1 is concerning due to its high mortality rate in humans and its potential to cause severe respiratory illness.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), symptoms of H5N1 avian influenza in humans typically include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, it can progress rapidly to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and organ failure.

To effectively prevent and control the transmission of influenza A(H5N1), it is essential to adhere to the following measures:

1. Refrain from consuming poultry or poultry products that appear sick, deceased, or of uncertain origin. Ensure consumption of thoroughly cooked food and boiled water, and practice regular handwashing with soap before meals.

2. Avoid involvement in the slaughter, transportation, purchase, or sale of poultry and poultry products of unknown origin.

3. In the event of encountering sick or deceased poultry, refrain from slaughtering or utilizing them. Instead, promptly notify local authorities and veterinary units for appropriate action.

4. Minimize interaction with and consumption of wild animals, particularly birds.

5. Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing flu-like symptoms. Timely consultation, examination, and treatment are crucial for prompt management.