24 January 2008

The Ministry of Health in Viet Nam has confirmed a new case of human infection of H5N1 avian influenza. The case has been confirmed by the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (NIHE).

The case is a 34 year old male from Tuyen Quang Province. He developed symptoms on 10 January, was hospitalized on 16 January and died on 18 January. The case had contact with sick and dead poultry prior to his illness. Poultry infected with H5N1 avian influenza were identified in the case´s village following his illness.

Control measures have been implemented and close contacts have been identified. All remain healthy and will continue to be monitored.

Of the 102 cases confirmed to date in Vietnam, 48 have been fatal.