Mexico - Ministry of Health reports a human case of H5N1 avian flu, Durango state - April 4, 2025 - Died, H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b genotype D1.1.

[sharon sanders]

hat tip @pandidansk



The Ministry of Health reports the detection of the first human case of avian influenza A (H5N1)

Ministry of Health | April 4, 2025 | National www.gob.mx/salud
The Ministry of Health reports the detection of the first human case of avian influenza A (H5N1) in Mexico.
The case occurred in a three-year-old girl residing in the state of Durango. On April 1, the Institute of Epidemiological Diagnosis and Reference (InDRE) confirmed the result of influenza A (H5N1). The patient initially received treatment with oseltamivir and is currently hospitalized in a tertiary care unit in the city of Torreón, where her condition is reported to be serious.
Once the case was confirmed, the following actions were immediately implemented:

• Notification to the World Health Organization, in accordance with the protocol established for this purpose in the International Health Regulations .

Health

• Health personnel from the Durango and Coahuila Health Services were trained in relation to the National Guide for the preparation, prevention and response to a zoonotic influenza outbreak or event at the animal-human interface .
• Intentional search operations were initiated for cases suspected of viral respiratory illness.

Semarnat - Conanp

• Biological surveys and sampling of wild and synanthropic birds were carried out in the area of influence surrounding the home of the positive case of avian influenza A (H5N1), and a permanent monitoring system was established for the timely detection of other similar cases in wildlife living in the area.

Agriculture - Senasica

• The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, through the National Service of Health, Safety, and Agrifood Quality (Senasica), reported that no commercial production units have been affected by avian influenza A (H5N1) in any region of the country. However, Senasica continues its active epidemiological surveillance efforts to promptly identify any potential cases. If so, the corresponding national and international protocols will be implemented.

The Ministry of Health informs the population:
The WHO considers the public health risk of this virus to the general population to be low, so eating well-cooked chicken or eggs does not pose a risk to human health. Zoonotic influenza is a disease that can be transmitted from birds or other animals to humans. To date, there is no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission.
The Ministry of Health has a strategic reserve of 40,000 oseltamivir treatments.
The population is recommended to:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or 70 percent alcohol-based solutions.
• Wear a face mask if you have respiratory symptoms and ventilate spaces.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Wash your hands before handling cooked foods and after handling raw foods.
• Cook chicken and eggs properly (over 70°C)
• Do not use the same utensils to handle raw and cooked foods.
• Avoid touching or approaching wild animals.
• Do not handle or pick up dead animals.
• Do not touch sick or dead birds or poultry due to unknown causes.
• Wear gloves, face masks, and protective clothing if you work on farms or slaughterhouses and have contact with birds or other animals, their products, and waste.
• Monitor for signs of illness or abnormal death in farm or backyard animals and report them immediately to the authorities.

The Ministry of Health recommends seeking medical attention if you experience fever, conjunctivitis (burning, itching, redness of the eyes), cough, sore throat, runny nose, difficulty breathing, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding, or altered consciousness after contact with sick or dead birds or other animals.

X: @SSalud_mx
Facebook: facebook.com/SecretariadeSaludMX
Instagram: ssalud_mx
YouTube: Ministry of Health of Mexico

https://www.gob.mx/salud/prensa/secr...a-aviar-a-h5n1

[sharon sanders]

X posting -

[sharon sanders]

Please see:

H5N1 Avian Flu: FluTrackers 2016 - Current Global Case List

Mexico: H5N1 in wild birds


In the wild bird thread above Lance posted a WOAH report about vultures testing positive in a zoo in Durango in February 2025.

[Treyfish]

Mexico confirms country's first human case of bird flu in a 3-year-old girl


By ASSOCIATED PRESS

PUBLISHED: 18:28 EDT, 4 April 2025 | UPDATED: 18:28 EDT, 4 April 2025

MEXICO CITY (AP) - A 3-year-old girl from the western state of Durango is Mexico's first confirmed human case of bird flu, health officials said Friday.

……
In Mexico, the girl was in serious condition in a hospital in Torreon in the neighboring state of Coahuila, the health ministry said in a statement Friday. It said she had initially been treated with an anti-flu medication….

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-14573629/Mexico-confirms-countrys-human-case-bird-flu-3-year-old-girl.html

[Pathfinder]

Text and image translated by Google

GobDgo@gobdgo

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC AND MEDIA: Please be advised that a case of avian influenza (H5N1) is being reported in Gómez Palacio, Durango. The corresponding protocols have been activated, and it is recommended that you stay informed through official channels and avoid spreading rumors.


9:16 AM · Apr 5, 2025

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.elsiglodedurango.com.mx/...-personas.html

Avian flu case in Gómez Palacio confirmed that it was from bird to human, not between people
The Ministry of Health confirmed that during the first health check, samples were taken from the minor's closest relatives.
SAÚL MALDONADO April 7, 2025 - 3:13 PM

The positive case of avian flu in humans, detected in Gómez Palacio, was not transmitted from human to human, but from bird to human, confirmed Moisés Nájera Torres, head of the Durango Ministry of Health. He stated that, during the first health check, 12 samples were collected, and all were negative.

The Durango Health Secretary commented that, based on the evolution of the virus, human-to-human transmission is not considered in this case. "At least that's the first report I have," he stated, so it is concluded that the transmission was from bird to human.

She explained that the first health cordon has already been carried out in a ranch in Gómez Palacio, where the infected minor lives. Samples were taken from the 12 people closest to the three-year-old girl, including her immediate family, and all tested negative for the A(H5N1) strain.

Regarding the minor's health status, Nájera Torres stated that it is up to the Mexican Social Security Institute to report on the matter. However, to her knowledge, the child was in serious condition.

She added that, since it is influenza, appropriate preventive measures should be taken, such as wearing a face mask and frequent handwashing.

You might be interested in: Parents of girl with bird flu test negative; health protocol reinforced in Gómez Palacio

Meanwhile, state and federal agricultural authorities continue taking samples at all poultry farms in the Comarca Lagunera region to detect possible infections. So far, no positive cases have been identified.

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.milenio.com/estados/rese...-gomez-palacio

Prognosis reserved for child with bird flu in Gómez Palacio; she has multiple organ failure
They emphasize that the health cordon has so far revealed no suspected cases, and the girl's parents have tested negative for the disease.
Esmeralda Sánchez
Saltillo, Coahuila / 04/07/2025 8:21:00 PM

The three-year-old girl infected with bird flu in a communal land in Gómez Palacio remains in a guarded state, as she has experienced multiple organ problems, including kidney, liver, and respiratory problems, reported Health Secretary Eliud Felipe Aguirre Vázquez.

He emphasized that the health cordon has so far revealed no suspected cases, and the girl's parents have tested negative for the disease.

"This 3-year-old girl was infected in a rural community in Gómez Palacio. She is not from Coahuila. However, due to health issues she had, she is being treated at the Social Security Specialty Clinic 71. Her condition is confidential. The girl is in serious condition and has several problems. We hope she improves with the treatment she is receiving."

She explained that this type of illness can cause problems, from conjunctivitis to multiple organ damage. "It causes kidney, respiratory, and liver problems, and depending on how the disease progresses, it spreads. The baby is in intensive care and already has several problems in her body; multiple organ failure is beginning."

Regarding the health pig, she said it has already been carried out and consists of searching for suspected cases. Therefore, tests are being conducted on the closest relatives who had contact with the girl, such as the parents, who have tested negative.

"We haven't found anything, not even any suspected cases," he added, noting that the fence currently includes Torreón, the Laguna Region, and Gómez Palacio, as well as Durango, "and we are coordinating to support each other in any situation in both states."

How is it spread?

He stated that this disease is highly transmissible and contagious through saliva droplets, so he encouraged citizens of these nearby cities to opt for wearing face masks when going outside: "There have been many dust storms, in Laguna as well as in Gómez Palacio, at the Eiffel Tower. We ask that you wear face masks," since federal health authorities have not yet determined the source of the infection.

"One way of transmission is through chicken feces. The virus is there, and when there is air in the environment, it carries it." Regarding coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture, he said that each agency will take its own actions, "and they are checking on the feces issue."

Aguirre Vázquez said there is currently no vaccine for humans against avian flu. "We have a vaccine for human influenza, but not for avian flu. I believe that is handled by SAGARPA (National Agency for the Protection of Animals) or the agricultural authorities that oversee all poultry farms."

Therefore, the only preventive measure is sanitary cordons to search for suspected cases, and recommending that those who own a poultry farm wear face masks.

DAED

https://www.milenio.com/estados/reservan-pronostico-menor-gripe-aviar-gomez-palacio

[Shiloh]

Source: https://rancherita.com.mx/noticias/d...n-torreon.html

Featured • Published on 2025-04-07
3-year-old girl diagnosed with avian influenza in Torreón remains in intensive care

The three-year-old girl diagnosed with H5N1 avian influenza, the first confirmed human case of this virus in Coahuila, remains in intensive care at IMSS Clinic 71 in Torreón.

According to authorities, this is an imported case from La Laguna de Durango, although they have not ruled out the possibility of infection through indirect exposure to wild birds.

Initial investigations suggest that the transmission of the virus may have been related to recent dust storms in the region, which reportedly spread infected bird feces.

The state's Secretary of Health, Eliud Aguirre Vázquez, explained that this hypothesis arose due to the lack of direct contact between the girl and sick animals, which complicates tracing the exact source of the infection.

Following confirmation of the case, the Government of Coahuila, in conjunction with the National Epidemiological Surveillance System (SISVER), deployed a health cordon in the municipalities of Gómez Palacio and Torreón. Measures include sample collection, follow-up of close contacts, enhanced medical surveillance, and constant monitoring of poultry farms in the region.

So far, the girl's close relatives have tested negative for the virus. However, health authorities urged extreme caution, recommending the use of face masks in high-risk areas, frequent handwashing, and avoiding any interaction with wild birds or birds showing signs of illness.

H5N1 avian influenza in humans can present with symptoms such as high fever, dry cough, intense fatigue, and respiratory distress. In severe cases—such as the current one—it can progress to severe pneumonia, respiratory failure, and multiple organ involvement.

The virus is usually spread through direct contact with infected birds or surfaces contaminated with their bodily fluids. The virus's mutations and pandemic potential have generated constant concern among the scientific community, especially regarding the possibility of its ability to sustain human-to-human transmission. Therefore, detection, containment, and prevention protocols are a priority when a case is detected.

[Pathfinder]

The Durango government assures that there is no risk in consuming chicken and eggs after a case of bird flu.

April 8, 2025| 01:47 | Omar Hernández | UnoTV | Durango

This Monday, the Durango government took a stand on the first case of avian flu nationwide , affecting a three-year-old girl.

The state government justified its delay in confirming the illness by stating that the case is under the care of the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), and they needed to corroborate the information.

“The first case of an infection that we had not yet seen in humans, avian influenza, has been diagnosed; specifically, it is a girl from the Gómez Palacio ranches. She is being treated at IMSS Clinic 51 and later transferred to Clinic 71 in Torreón (…) She is a patient who is in serious condition due to the infection. However, doctors are developing and making every effort to improve her current situation. It is up to the IMSS to give us more information because she is not a patient we have.”
Moisés Nájera / Secretary of Health of the Durango government

Authorities asked the population not to be alarmed, as the initial results of the health cordon have so far yielded negative results.

"This virus is not transmitted from human to human. An epidemiological cordon is also being established, meaning the area where the girl lived or where she is developing is contained. The Ministry of Health, specifically the epidemiology department, is supporting us in this at the federal level. They took samples from 12 people around this girl or from her primary circle, including her parents, and the latest report I have is that all 12 patients tested negative."
Moisés Nájera / Secretary of Health of the Durango government

In parallel with the Ministry of Health's epidemiological fence, inspections are being carried out at the state's beekeeping centers . So far, there have been no positive cases of sick birds .

"The inspection being carried out has not revealed any positive cases on the farms, so we must continue working, of course, in general, inspecting each and every one of the poultry farms to be able to detect where this positive case of avian influenza came from ," explained Jesús López, Secretary of Agriculture, Livestock and Rural Development of Durango.

In a press release, the state government stated that there is no risk in consuming chicken or eggs, and reiterated that the state's poultry production remains under strict health control.

https://www.unotv.com/estados/durango/gripe-aviar-gobierno-de-durango-asegura-que-no-hay-riesgo-en-consumo-de-pollo-y-huevo/

---------------------------------------
BIRD FLU
Durango girl infected with bird flu remains hospitalized at UMAE 71

The source of the infection is under investigation.

ISABEL AMPUDIA April 7, 2025 - 6:29 PM

The condition of a 3-year-old girl infected with the bird flu virus, the first recorded in the country, is reported to be serious. She is hospitalized in a Torreón hospital.

In this regard, the Secretary of Health in Coahuila, Eliud Felipe Aguirre Vázquez, confirmed that the girl is in intensive care, her prognosis is reserved, and she is hospitalized at IMSS Specialty Clinic 71.

He explained that being in that area is due to the presence of several problems in the body, and the possibility of multiple organ failure could be beginning, meaning it's already affecting the kidneys and lungs, which are already starting to cause problems.

"She's already being treated. We hope she can recover with medication, but she's in serious condition," he said.

He also emphasized that if a person is infected, there's a possibility they could infect more people.

"It's like the flu, and from human to human, if you're infected, you can get it through saliva droplets. That's why all family members have been tested, and all have come back negative," he stated.

He emphasized that this case is an imported case because it occurred in a rural area of Gómez Palacio, Durango, but due to the severity of the case, she was transferred to the specialty hospital in Torreón.

However, he mentioned that the source of the infection is currently being investigated, as chicken and hen feces often carry viruses.

In addition to the above, he said that after many dust storms, the virus is also present in the environment, which can be a risk. Therefore, the use of face masks is recommended when these types of winds are recorded.

https://www.elsiglodetorreon.com.mx/noticia/2025/menor-duranguense-contagiada-por-gripe-aviar-continua-internada-en-la-umae-71.html

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.posta.com.mx/coahuila/mu...xico/vl2022494

PostaMx
Girl dies of bird flu in Coahuila; first death in Mexico
A 3-year-old girl dies in Torreón, Coahuila, marking the first human case of bird flu in Mexico. 23 minutes ago
Published on
April 8, 2025, 10:58 AM

By: Victor B. Martinez

The Laguna region is facing a tragic epidemiological alert after the death of a three-year-old girl infected with the H5N1 avian influenza virus (bird flu) was confirmed, marking the first human case recorded in Mexico in 2025.

The child, originally from a rural community in Gómez Palacio, Durango, had been admitted with a reserved prognosis to IMSS Clinic 71 in Torreón, where she ultimately died after experiencing multiple organ failure as a result of the virus' spread.

INFORMATION IN PROCESS.

[Shiloh]

Source: https://politico.mx/2025/04/08/murio...iar-en-mexico/

3-Year-Old Girl Died After Complications from Avian Flu in Mexico
The minor died of multiple organ failure.
Político MX Editorial Staff
Published: Apr 8 at 11:16 AM, 2025

This Tuesday morning, the three-year-old girl who was confirmed last week as the first confirmed case of H5N1 avian flu in Mexico died.

The minor died after experiencing multiple organ failure at Clinic 71 of the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) in Saltillo, Coahuila.

The Secretary of Health in Coahuila, Eliud Aguirre Vázquez, detailed that no additional cases of the disease have been reported so far.

He also added that PCR tests are already being performed on the medical personnel who received and treated the minor, but no suspected cases have been found.

First case of avian influenza in humans in Mexico

Just last April 4, the Ministry of Health confirmed the first human case of avian influenza A (H5N1) in Mexico.

Health authorities reported that the Institute of Diagnosis and Epidemiological Reference (InDRE) confirmed the result of influenza A (H5N1) on Tuesday, April 1.

Following the news, the patient initially received treatment with oseltamivir and was hospitalized in a tertiary care unit in the city of Torreón.

However, the minor's condition was reported as serious, and her death was confirmed today.

[sharon sanders]

hat tip @rafoji


The Ministry of Health reports the death of the first human case of avian influenza A (H5N1)

Ministry of Health | April 8, 2025 | National
www.gob.mx/salud

The Ministry of Health reports the death of the first human case of avian influenza A (H5N1) in Mexico.
It is reported that a three-year-old girl diagnosed with avian influenza A(H5N1) and a resident of Durango died today at 1:35 a.m. due to respiratory complications resulting from the infection.
It is a viral disease that affects birds (wild and domestic), mammals and occasionally humans.
Local, state, and federal health, environmental, and agricultural authorities continue prevention and control measures within the context of One Health. So far, 38 human contacts of the case have been sampled, all of which have tested negative. No additional human cases have been identified, and the risk of further cases is considered low.

https://www.gob.mx/salud/prensa/secretaria-de-salud-informa-la-defuncion-del-primer-caso-humano-de-influenza-aviar-a-h5n1

[Pathfinder]

Translation Google

Migratory birds not ruled out in case of avian flu

04/13/2025
Updated 2025/04/13 at 2:53 PM

By: Martha Casas.

The president of the Durango Regional Livestock Union (UGRD), Rogelio Soto Ochoa, lamented the death of a small girl due to avian influenza. He indicated that fences and perimeters have been established to try to detect the source of the disease, however, so far nothing has been found.

The immediate family tested negative, so the investigation and sanitary fences continue. The livestock leader suggested one possibility is that one of the migratory birds may have been carrying the virus. However, he indicated that the federal authority is responsible for providing information and conducting investigations.

https://contextodedurango.com.mx/no-descartan-aves-migratorias-en-caso-de-gripe-aviar/

[Pathfinder]

Translation Google

Local
Monday, April 14, 2025

Epidemiological fences remain in place due to a case of avian flu in Durango.

Sader and Senasica are in charge of inspecting each bird that is tested and vaccinated. So far, none of the tests have been positive.

Erika Uribe

The health authority continues its investigation to determine the origin of the first case of H5N1 influenza, better known as bird flu , which occurred in a three-year-old girl in a community in Gómez Palacio. According to the state's Health Secretary, Moisés Nájera Torres, studies conducted on poultry farms have yielded negative results.

He explained that the epidemiological cordon is still in place, with samples being taken from people who present any of the symptoms, such as headache, runny nose, fever, sore throat, general malaise , and dehydration.

They are asked to go to the doctor and based on the symptoms , the staff will evaluate the sample taken, which is sent to the state laboratory, where they classify what type of influenza it is, and to have a more accurate diagnosis, it is sent to the Institute of Diagnosis and Epidemiological Reference (InDRE).

He reported that the staff of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (Sader) and the National Service of Health, Safety, and Quality (Senasica) are the ones who perform the tests and checks on the animals. "Just as they vaccinate them, they also take the sample, and it's bird by bird because they have to jump from one fence to another. They wait for the results and based on these, they determine whether or not they have an infection," he said.

He clarified that H5N1 influenza is a virus that, biologically, has not yet completed its evolution, and they are still not 100 percent sure that it came from a bird . Therefore, the Secretary of Health in Durango even ruled out the possibility that the patient was infected by animal feces, since the virus is dead by the time the feces are dry and blown by the wind.

Furthermore, the virus's lack of evolution prevents it from being transmitted from one human to another. "As a living being, this virus depends on cells to continue its replication, division, and reproduction," he commented.

Regarding the uncertainty surrounding a possible false positive, given that none of the family members have tested positive, nor has any infection been found within the health barriers established in the surrounding area, Nájera Torres explained that two laboratory results came back positive. "There's no longer any error here," he said.

He noted that when this virus evolves and survives in the cell nucleus of a human or animal, it can be transmitted, just as happened with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Canirac ensures that its chicken suppliers are well certified

The restaurant leader asked the population not to be alarmed by the case of bird flu that was reported in Gómez Palacio, since all foods prepared with this ingredient are reliable.

Therefore, we ask you to cook the chicken and the egg thoroughly. The latter should not be left medium-rare as many people prefer, but should be cooked thoroughly. Wash your hands, hydrate, and seek medical advice if you experience symptoms such as those mentioned above.

https://oem.com.mx/elsoldedurango/local/se-mantienen-cercos-epidemiologicos-por-caso-de-gripe-aviar-en-durango-22783094

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.who.int/emergencies/dise...em/2025-DON564

Avian Influenza A(H5N1) - Mexico
17 April 2025

Situation at a glance

On 2 April 2025, the International Health Regulations (IHR) National Focal Point (NFP) for Mexico notified the World Health Organization (WHO) of the country’s first laboratory-confirmed human infection with an avian influenza A(H5N1) virus in the state of Durango. In response, local and national health authorities have implemented a range of measures to monitor, prevent, and control the situation. There have been reports of A(H5N1) outbreaks in birds in Durango, although the exact source of infection in this case remains under investigation. To date, no further cases of human infection with influenza A(H5N1) linked to this case have been identified. In accordance with the IHR (2005), any human infection caused by a new influenza A virus subtype is considered a potentially significant public health event and is subject to mandatory notification to WHO. Based on the information currently available on this and previous cases, WHO assesses the risk to the general population posed by A(H5N1) viruses as low. For individuals with occupational exposure to these viruses, the risk of infection is considered low to moderate. The situation may change as more information is gathered and so WHO continues to closely monitor these viruses and the global epidemiological situation.
Description of the situation

On 2 April 2025, the Mexico IHR National Focal Point (NFP) notified the World Health Organization of a laboratory-confirmed human infection with an avian influenza A(H5N1) virus in the state of Durango.

This case represents the second reported human infection with avian influenza A(H5) in Mexico, and the first confirmed case of infection with an influenza A(H5N1) virus in the country.

The case is a child under the age of 10 years from the state of Durango who tested positive for influenza A(H5N1) at the Instituto de Diagnóstico y Referencia Epidemiológicos (InDRE, by its Spanish acronym). The case did not have any underlying medical conditions, had not received seasonal influenza vaccination, and had no history of travel.

Symptoms began on 7 March 2025 with fever, malaise, and vomiting. On 13 March, the case was admitted to hospital due to respiratory failure and antiviral treatment was initiated the next day. The case was transferred to a tertiary care hospital on 16 March and died on 8 April due to respiratory complications.

On 18 March, a nasopharyngeal swab was collected, and the sample was processed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The result was influenza A, non-subtypable. The sample was sent to the Centro de Investigación Biomédica del Noroeste (CIBIN, by its Spanish acronym), IMSS Monterrey, where the result was confirmed as influenza A, non-subtypeable, along with simultaneous detection of parainfluenza 3 virus. On 31 March, the sample was forwarded to the Laboratorio Central de Epidemiología (LCE, by its Spanish acronym) “La Raza,” where it was molecularly identified as influenza A(H5). On 1 April, the sample was received by InDRE, where the positive result for influenza A(H5N1) was confirmed by RT-PCR. The sample was further characterized as avian influenza A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b genotype D1.1.

The source of infection remains under investigation. During contact tracing, 91 individuals were identified, including 21 household contacts, 60 healthcare workers, and 10 individuals from a childcare center. Pharyngeal and nasopharyngeal swab samples collected from 49 contacts tested negative for influenza A(H5N1). To date, no further cases of human infection with influenza A(H5N1) linked to this case have been identified.

According to information from the National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety and Quality (SENASICA per its acronym in Spanish), between January 2022 and August 2024, 75 outbreaks of A(H5N1) in poultry were reported across various regions of Mexico including: Aguascalientes (5), Baja California (4), Chiapas (1), Chihuahua (3), Guanajuato (2), Jalisco (17), México City (7), Michoacán (1), Nuevo León (1), Oaxaca (2), Puebla (2), Sonora (8), Tamaulipas (1), Veracruz (1), Yucatán (20). At the end of January 2025, SENASICA confirmed a new case of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) in a sick vulture at the Sahuatoba Zoo in Durango, the state where the case lived. Following this, the death of a Canada goose with neurological and hemorrhagic symptoms was reported at the Peña del Aguila dam in Durango. A total of 25 sick birds were reported, and the presence of HPAI A(H5) was confirmed at a laboratory in Gómez Palacio, in Durango. A positive case of avian influenza A(H5) was also recorded in a bird at Las Auras Park.

Epidemiology

Animal influenza viruses typically circulate within animal populations but some have the potential to infect humans. Human infections are predominantly acquired through direct contact with infected animals or exposure to contaminated environments. Based on the original host species, influenza A viruses can be categorized into subtypes such as avian influenza, swine influenza, and other animal-origin influenza subtypes.

Human infection with avian influenza viruses may result in a spectrum of illness, ranging from mild upper respiratory tract symptoms to severe, life-threatening conditions. Clinical manifestations include conjunctivitis, respiratory, gastrointestinal symptoms, encephalitis, and encephalopathy. In some cases, asymptomatic infections with the A(H5N1) virus have been detected in individuals with known exposure to infected animals and environments.

A definitive diagnosis of human avian influenza infection requires laboratory confirmation. WHO regularly updates its technical guidance on the detection of zoonotic influenza, utilizing molecular diagnostic methods such as RT-PCR. Clinical evidence indicates that certain antiviral agents, particularly neuraminidase inhibitors (e.g., oseltamivir, zanamivir), have been shown to shorten the duration of viral replication and improve patient outcomes in some cases.

From 2003 to 10 April 2025, 972 cases of human infections with avian influenza A(H5N1), including 470 deaths (CFR 48.4%), have been reported to WHO from 24 countries. Almost all of these cases have been linked to close contact with infected live or dead birds, or contaminated environments.
Public health response

In response to this detection, additional investigation and surveillance activities are underway, coordinated by local and national health authorities, with involvement from both the animal and environmental sectors. These activities include:

Conducting a comprehensive epidemiological investigation of the case and contacts, including the collection of respiratory samples from symptomatic household contacts and healthcare workers, alongside ongoing follow-up and monitoring of close contacts.
Strengthening surveillance of respiratory viruses (including influenza-like illness [ILI] and severe acute respiratory infection [SARI]), with a particular focus on influenza viruses, in order to identify and analyze any atypical respiratory patterns or trends in the region.
Activating the One Health approach, involving SENASICA and national environmental agencies (SEMARNAT and CONANP), to ensure inter-institutional coordination, assess potential animal health risks, evaluate possible exposures within the community and animal populations, and notify the National Epidemiological Surveillance Committee (CONAVE).
Undertaking regular reporting of HPAI incidence in poultry and wild birds to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). The latest update on 5 March 2025 reported active surveillance and timely outbreak notifications, with a recent detection in the State of Durango. Consequently, local poultry farmers have been urged to reinforce biosecurity measures on their farms and backyard operations, and to immediately report any observed anomalies in animal health to the relevant authorities. Ongoing epidemiological surveillance is being maintained in poultry production units, backyards, federally inspected slaughterhouses, municipal slaughterhouses, and through national-level monitoring of wild bird populations.

WHO risk assessment

This case represents the second documented case of human infection with avian influenza A(H5) in Mexico and the first confirmed case of infection with an A(H5N1) influenza virus. Ongoing investigations are focused on identifying the source of infection and monitoring contacts. To date, no additional human cases of A(H5N1) virus infection have been identified in relation to this case, nor have any been detected through routine influenza surveillance.

Outbreaks of HPAI A(H5) viruses, including A(H5N1), in poultry have been reported across multiple states in Mexico since January 2022, including in the state of Durango.

When avian influenza viruses circulate in poultry populations, there is an inherent risk of human infection through exposure to infected birds or contaminated environments. As such, sporadic human cases are expected.

Although limited human-to-human transmission of A(H5) viruses was observed in isolated events between 1997 and 2007, sustained human-to-human transmission of A(H5) viruses has not been documented. Available epidemiological and virological data suggest that A(H5) viruses from previous outbreaks have not acquired the capacity for sustained human-to-human transmission.

Based on current information, the WHO assesses the overall public health risk associated with A(H5) viruses as low. However, for individuals with occupational exposure, the risk of infection is considered low to moderate.

The risk assessment will be updated as new epidemiological or virological information emerges in relation to this event.

WHO advice

This event does not change the current WHO recommendations on public health measures and surveillance of influenza.

Given the dynamic and evolving nature of influenza viruses, WHO underscores the critical importance of robust global surveillance systems to detect and monitor virological, epidemiological, and clinical changes associated with emerging or circulating influenza strains with implications for human or animal health. Timely sharing of virus isolates remains essential to inform comprehensive risk assessments.

In instances where humans are exposed to outbreaks of influenza A viruses in domestic poultry, wild birds, or other animal species—or when a human case is confirmed or suspected—enhanced surveillance of potentially exposed populations should be promptly initiated.

Surveillance strategies should account for healthcare-seeking behaviors within the affected population and may include a combination of active and passive methods, such as intensified case finding through ILI/SARI sentinel systems, active hospital-based screening, and targeted surveillance among high-risk occupational groups. Additional data sources, including traditional healers, private healthcare providers, and non-governmental diagnostic laboratories, should also be integrated where applicable to enhance the comprehensiveness of surveillance.

Considering the widespread detection of avian influenza viruses among poultry, wild birds, and select mammalian species, the general public is advised to avoid direct contact with sick or deceased animals. Any suspected dead birds or mammals, as well as any requests for their removal, should be reported to the appropriate local veterinary or wildlife authorities to ensure safe handling and testing.

All poultry products, including eggs and meat, should be thoroughly cooked and handled with proper food safety precautions. Consumption of raw milk is discouraged due to potential health risks. WHO advises consuming pasteurized milk and if pasteurized milk is not available, heating raw milk until it boils to make it safer for consumption.

In the event of a confirmed or suspected human infection with a novel influenza A virus of pandemic potential, including avian-origin strains, a comprehensive epidemiological investigation should be initiated. This should include detailed assessment of animal exposure history, travel history, and identification of close contacts, even prior to laboratory confirmation. The epidemiological investigation should also include early identification of unusual events that could signal person-to-person transmission of the novel virus. Clinical specimens from confirmed or suspected cases should be tested and referred to a WHO Collaborating Centre for further virological characterization. Additional samples should be collected from animals, the environment or any foods suspected to be sources of infection.

Individuals working in poultry production and processing environments should take additional health precautions as they are at higher risk of exposure to avian influenza and other zoonotic diseases due to their close contact with birds and potentially contaminated environments.

Farm workers who have direct or close contact with animals or materials infected or contaminated with avian influenza A(H5) virus should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize their risk of exposure.

Currently, there are several vaccines licensed for preventing influenza A(H5) virus infection in humans, although their availability is limited. Candidate vaccine viruses for pandemic preparedness have been selected to protect against A(H5) disease in humans based on circulating strains. Existing seasonal influenza vaccines are unlikely to provide protection against avian influenza A(H5) viruses, based on currently available data. However, it is important that individuals who may have frequent exposure to infected or potentially infected birds or other animals get a seasonal influenza vaccine, as it would contribute to decreasing the risk of co-infection and possible genomic recombination of avian and human viruses, which could result in new strains with pandemic potential. Close monitoring of the epidemiological, clinical and virological situation, further characterization of recent human, poultry, and other animal influenza viruses, and serological investigations remain essential for assessing risk and adjusting risk management measures as needed.

WHO advises travelers to regions experiencing animal influenza outbreaks to avoid contact with live animal markets, farms, slaughter sites, or any environments with potential contamination from animal excreta. Adherence to hand hygiene and safe food handling practices is strongly recommended. Should infected individuals travel internationally, detection may occur during travel or upon arrival through routine health screening. However, further community-level spread is considered unlikely, as this virus has not yet acquired the ability to transmit easily among humans.

All human infections caused by a novel influenza A virus subtype are notifiable under the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) and State Parties to the IHR are required to immediately notify WHO within 24 hours of any laboratory-confirmed case of a recent human infection caused by an influenza A virus due to the potential to cause a pandemic. Evidence of illness is not required for this report. WHO has updated the influenza A(H5) confirmed case definition on the WHO website.

WHO does not recommend special traveler screening at points of entry or other restrictions due to the current situation of influenza viruses at the human-animal interface.
Further information

WHO Global influenza programme, human-animal interface
World Health Organization. (2025). Surveillance for human infections with avian influenza A(H5) viruses: objectives, case definitions, testing and reporting.
WHO (12 September 2024). Clinical practice guidelines for influenza
WHO Risk assessments and summaries of influenza at the human-animal interface
Zoonotic influenza candidate vaccine viruses and potency testing reagents
WHO Practical interim guidance to reduce the risk of infection in people exposed to avian influenza viruses
Surveillance for respiratory viruses of epidemic and pandemic potential
Protocol to investigate non-seasonal influenza and other emerging acute respiratory diseases
WHO case definition for human infections with avian influenza A(H5) virus requiring notification under IHR (2005)
World Health Organization. Cumulative number of confirmed human cases of avian influenza A(H5N1) reported to WHO. Geneva: WHO; 2024
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recommended composition of influenza virus vaccines for use in the southern hemisphere 2025 influenza season and development of candidate vaccine viruses for pandemic preparedness. Atlanta: CDC; 2025
Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization. Epidemiological Alert - Human infections caused by avian influenza A(H5N1) in the Region of the Americas - 5 June 2024. Washington, D.C.: PAHO/WHO; 2024
Public Health Risk Assessment associated with the spread of zoonotic avian influenza A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b in the Region of the Americas - 12 July 2024
World Health Organization. Mosaic Respiratory Surveillance Framework. Geneva: WHO; 2024
World Health Organization. Practical interim guidance to reduce the risk of infection in people exposed to avian influenza viruses. Geneva: WHO; 2024.
World Health Organization. WHO case definition for human infections with avian influenza A(H5) virus requiring notification under IHR (2005) Geneva: WHO; 2024
World Health Organization. Case definitions for the four diseases requiring notification in all circumstances under the International Health Regulations (2005). Geneva: WHO; 2024
WOAH report Mexico - Influenza A viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds) (2017-) - Follow up report 7
Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization. Technical note: Laboratory Diagnosis of Human Infection with Influenza A/H5
Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization. Samples from patients suspected of Influenza A/H5 LABORATORY TESTING ALGORITHM
Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization. Technical note: Laboratory Diagnosis of Human Infection with Influenza A/H5
Current technical information including monthly risk assessments at the Human-Animal Interface
WHO. Zoonotic Influenza Outbreak Toolbox
WHO. International Health Regulations (2005)
Terms of Reference for National Influenza Centers of the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System
Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization. Epidemiological Update: Avian Influenza A(H5N1) in the Americas Region, 15 November 2024. Washington, D.C.: PAHO/WHO; 2024
Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization. Report of the Regional Consultation for the Strengthening of Intersectoral Work in the Human-Animal Interface of Influenza. 22 March 2023. Washington, D.C.: PAHO/WHO; 2023
Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization. Strengthening the intersectoral work for Influenza at the Human Animal Interface in the Region of the Americas: Technical Questions and Answers. 19 May 2023. Washington, D.C.: PAHO/WHO; 2023
Pan American Health Organization / World Organization. Epidemiological Update: Avian Influenza A(H5N1) in the Americas Region, 4 March 2025. Washington, D.C.: PAHO/WHO; 2025

Citable reference: World Health Organization (17 April 2025). Disease Outbreak News; Avian Influenza A (H5N1) – Mexico. Available at: https://www.who.int/emergencies/dise...em/2025-DON564