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# 9863
On Monday (see HK Notified Of Human H5N1 Case In Yunnan) we learned of the infection of a 34 year-old male in Kumming with poultry exposure who was hospitalized in serious condition with H5N1.
Today, Hong Kong’s CHP has been notified of as second case from Kumming – the capital and largest city (pop. 3 million) in the province – that of a 17 year-old male.
Unlike Monday’s report, there is no specific mention of exposure to poultry in this announcement. This makes the fourth H5N1 case reported by China since January 1st and the third case in the past two weeks.
CHP notified by NHFPC of one human case of avian influenza A(H5N1) in Yunnan
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (March 25) received notification from the National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC) of a human case of avian influenza A(H5N1) affecting a man aged 17 in Yunnan.
According to the information provided by NHFPC, the patient lives in Kunming and has presented with fever and headache on March 13. He attended a local hospital on March 20. The patient is currently hospitalised for treatment in critical condition. His specimen, which was tested by the relevant authority, was positive for avian influenza A(H5N1).
"Locally, we will remain vigilant and work closely with the World Health Organization and relevant health authorities to monitor the latest developments," a spokesman for the DH said.
Health surveillance measures have been implemented at all boundary control points. Thermal imaging systems are in place for body temperature checks on inbound travellers and the DH also conducts temperature checks by handheld devices. Suspected cases will be immediately referred to public hospitals for follow-up.
Regarding health education for travellers, the display of posters and broadcasting of health messages in departure and arrival halls, environmental health inspection and provision of regular updates to the travel industry and other stakeholders are ongoing.
Travellers, especially those returning from avian influenza-affected areas with fever or respiratory symptoms, should immediately wear masks, seek medical attention and reveal their travel history to doctors. Health-care professionals should pay special attention to patients who might have had contact with poultry, birds or their droppings in affected areas.
