On Monday, the China National Health Commission reported that a case of human avian influenza A (H5N6), commonly known as bird flu, had been confirmed in Beijing. The anonymous patient, profiled as a 59-year-old woman with a non-Beijing hukou, began showing symptoms of discomfort early on Aug 6 and was officially hospitalized on Aug 11, at which point it was confirmed that she was infected with the H5N6 virus. Shen reportedly contracted the flu after coming into contact with infected poultry outside of Beijing.

Since her admittance, the patient’s condition has remained precarious and she is reportedly in a critical state.

Avian influenza is highly pathogenic, meaning the risk of it causing disease is high, with mild to life-threatening consequences. Some weaker strains may only cause clinical inconveniences such as eye infections and flu-like symptoms, which often recede after an infection period of 7-10 days. However, more virulent strains may lead to multi-organ failure and potentially death.

The virus is rarely transmitted between humans and is largely contracted by individuals that work in close proximity with birds and poultry that are carrying the virus, both dead and alive.

Since 2014, Chinese health authorities have recorded 24 incidents of the avian influenza A (H5N6) strand present in humans. To reduce chances of infection, it is recommended that you minimize interactions with undomesticated birds and avoid areas with pervasive bird populations.

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Images: stuff.co.nz, Financial Tribune