New Delhi, June 13: The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed a second human case of the Bird Flu virus in India, with the first case reported in 2019. A 4-year-old child from West Bengal exhibited symptoms of H9N2 in January of this year and required intensive care treatment on two occasions before being discharged in May 2024.

"The case was detected in January. And, no one has been infected since then," a Union Health Ministry official stated. The official added that concern with bird flu virus typically arises when there is human-to-human transmission. In this instance, it is believed the child contracted the virus through exposure to poultry at home and in the surrounding areas. Bird Flu in India: WHO Confirms Second Human Case of H9N2 Virus From West Bengal.

Symptoms

Bird flu virus, or avian influenza, typically presents with symptoms similar to those of regular influenza. These include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue. In some cases, individuals may experience eye infections (conjunctivitis), difficulty breathing, chest pain, and in severe cases, pneumonia. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially after contact with poultry, seek medical attention promptly. West Bengal: No Bird Flu Case in State Now, Government Formed Team to Evaluate Situation, Says Official.

Precautions

  1. Avoid Direct Contact with Poultry: Refrain from touching birds, especially those that appear sick or have died. Ensure children stay away from poultry as well.

  2. Maintain Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling poultry or eggs. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are unavailable.

  3. Cook Poultry Properly: Ensure that poultry and eggs are cooked thoroughly, as heat destroys the virus.

  4. Use Protective Gear: If you must handle poultry, wear gloves and masks to reduce the risk of infection.

  5. Monitor Health: Keep an eye on any symptoms, particularly if you have been in contact with poultry, and seek medical advice if needed.

The WHO advises those at high risk of severe disease—such as children, older adults, and pregnant women—to avoid activities like slaughtering, collecting eggs, or preparing poultry.

Meanwhile, Health officials confirmed that West Bengal currently has no bird flu virus case and the state government has formed a team to evaluate the evaluation in the state.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 13, 2024 03:01 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).