The Health Bureau (SSM) said in a statement yesterday that the mainland reported the case of a woman who caught H5N6 avian influenza, also known as bird flu.
According to the statement, the 52-year-old woman lives in Huizhou. The statement said that on July 31, the woman started to show bird flu symptoms, adding that she is in critical condition. The statement said that the family has a history of interacting with poultry.
The statement noted that since 2014, Anhui, Guangdong, Guangxi, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu, Sichuan and Yunnan have recorded cases of H5N6.
The bureau said that it will closely monitor the situation and keep in contact with the national and neighbouring regions’ health authorities, as well as the World Health Organisation (WHO).
The statement said in order to prevent the spread of avian influenza, the bureau is urging residents to abide by procedures such as: avoid contact with poultry faeces, and if so to wash hands immediately; avoid purchasing or bringing any types of uncertified poultry into the city; do not eat uncooked poultry meat, animal organs, blood-made food items or eggs; to pay close attention to personal hygiene; and if one shows bird flu symptoms, such as fever, cough, difficulty in breathing, contact the doctor immediately and reveal your recent travel itinerary and interaction with animals
For more information, one can visit www.ssm.gov.mo or contact the bureau on 2870 0800.
Image courtesy of Outbreak News Today
