“This is the first human case of H5N1 avian influenza in Australia. The case occurred in a child, who acquired the infection in India and was unwell in March 2024. The avian influenza virus was detected through further testing of positive influenza samples that takes place to detect novel or concerning flu virus strains, as part of Victoria’s enhanced surveillance system. Contact tracing has not identified any further cases of avian influenza connected to this case,” Victoria Health Department has said in an official statement.
“There is a current global outbreak of avian influenza in birds and animals. Avian influenza does not usually infect people, but in rare cases human infection can occur. The recently reported case in Victoria was in a child who returned to Australia from overseas in March 2024. The child experienced a severe infection but is no longer unwell and has made a full recovery,” it has also said.
Australia is the only continent where animals have so far stayed free of the H5N1 avian influenza virus, but authorities on Wednesday said a different strain of highly pathogenic bird flu had been detected at an egg farm near Melbourne. “Transmission to humans is very rare, with a small number of human cases of H5N1 reported globally, resulting in death in a number of cases. This is the first confirmed human case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Australia, and the first time the H5N1 strain has been detected in a person or animal in Australia,” the Health Department has said.
What is the H5N1 virus?The H5N1 virus, also known as avian influenza or bird flu, is a highly pathogenic strain of the influenza virus that primarily infects birds. First identified in humans in 1997, it can occasionally transmit to humans through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. H5N1 is concerning due to its high mortality rate in humans and its potential to cause severe respiratory illness. While human-to-human transmission is rare, there is fear that the virus could mutate to enable easier spread among people, posing a significant pandemic threat. Preventive measures include monitoring and controlling outbreaks in poultry populations.
Symptoms one must pay attention toThe symptoms of H5N1 virus infection in humans can range from mild to severe and often resemble those of other types of influenza. Early symptoms typically appear within 2-8 days of exposure and include high fever (over 100.4°F or 38°C), cough, sore throat, and muscle aches. As the illness progresses, severe respiratory symptoms such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and pneumonia can develop. Gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting are also common.
In severe cases, the infection can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multi-organ failure, and septic shock. Neurological symptoms, including altered mental status and seizures, have been reported in some instances. The high mortality rate associated with H5N1 makes early detection and treatment critical.
Rachel Carter is a health and wellness expert dedicated to helping readers lead healthier lives. With a background in nutrition, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being.
