Avian influenza – situation in Indonesia – update 45

6 December 2005

The Ministry of Health in Indonesia has confirmed a further case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The case occurred in a 25-year-old woman from Tangerang (west of Jakarta). She developed symptoms of fever and stomach discomfort on 17 November, followed by cough and breathing difficulty. She was admitted to hospital on 23 November and died on 25 November.

The field investigation found a history of exposure to sick poultry around her house. Testing of poultry and environmental samples has been undertaken by the Ministry of Agriculture. Close contacts of the woman are being monitored.

The woman is the 13th case in Indonesia. Of these, 8 have been fatal.