June 5, 2024 – The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Wednesday the first confirmed human fatality from the A(H5N2) subtype of avian influenza. A 59-year-old resident of Mexico succumbed to the virus on April 24 after exhibiting symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath, diarrhea, nausea, and general discomfort.

This incident represents the first globally confirmed case of human infection with the A(H5N2) bird flu virus and the first H5 virus infection reported in a human in Mexico. According to WHO, the individual had no known exposure to poultry or other animals, although A(H5N2) has been detected in poultry within the country.

The patient had multiple underlying medical conditions and had been bedridden for three weeks due to other health issues prior to developing acute symptoms. The WHO stressed the importance of thorough monitoring and investigation of such cases to better understand the transmission dynamics of the virus and the potential risks it poses to human health.

The confirmation of this fatality highlights the urgent need for heightened vigilance and preparedness in addressing avian influenza. Public health authorities are encouraged to enhance surveillance and implement robust response strategies to prevent further infections and safeguard at-risk populations.

This development serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by zoonotic diseases, which can jump from animals to humans. The WHO and other health organizations are calling for coordinated efforts to improve biosecurity measures, increase public awareness, and ensure rapid response capabilities to contain and mitigate the impact of such infectious diseases.