Avian influenza – situation in China - update

29 March 2007

The Ministry of Health in China has reported a new fatal case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The case has been confirmed by the national laboratory.

The 16-year-male from Anhui province developed fever and pneumonia-like symptoms on 17 March and was hospitalized on 20 March. He died on 27 March.

There is no initial indication to suggest he had contact with sick birds prior to becoming unwell and investigations to identify the source of his exposure are ongoing. Close contacts have been placed under medical observation and all remain well.

Of the 24 cases confirmed to date in China, 15 have been fatal.