15 February 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 40 -year old male from Gia Loc district, Hai Duong province. He developed symptoms on 2 February was hospitalized on 8 February and died on 13 February. The case had contact with sick and dead poultry prior to his illness. The Ministry of Health and local health units have implemented control measures and close contacts have been identified. All remain healthy and will continue to be monitored.

Of the 103 cases confirmed to date in Vietnam, 49 have been fatal.