30 May 2007

The Ministry of Health in China has reported a new case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The case was confirmed by the national laboratory on 23 May.

The 19-year old male soldier, serving in Fujian province, developed fever and pneumonia-like symptoms on 9 May and was hospitalized on 14 May.

There is no initial indication to suggest he had contact with sick birds prior to becoming unwell. Close contacts have been placed under medical observation and all remain well.

Of the 25 cases confirmed to date in China, 15 have been fatal.