India Records First H5N1 Fatality Since 2021

A tragic case of bird flu has emerged from southern India, where a two-year-old girl from Palnadu district in Andhra Pradesh succumbed to the deadly H5N1 virus after reportedly consuming raw chicken. This marks the country’s first recorded fatality from the virus in nearly four years.

How the Child Contracted Bird Flu

Health authorities confirmed that the toddler developed severe symptoms, including fever, breathing difficulties, and diarrhea, before her death on 15 March.

• She was initially treated at a local health center but was later transferred to a city hospital on 4 March as her condition worsened.
• Tests confirmed that she was infected with the H5N1 strain of avian influenza.
• Despite receiving medical treatment, she could not be saved.

Officials stated that the infection was linked to the consumption of raw chicken, though it remains unclear whether she was intentionally fed the meat or consumed it accidentally.

Concerns Over Bird Flu Transmission

H5N1, commonly known as bird flu, primarily affects poultry but can occasionally spread to humans through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated food. While rare, human cases of H5N1 are often severe and have a high fatality rate.

Government Response and Preventive Measures

Following the incident, health authorities have launched an investigation to track potential sources of infection. Steps being taken include:

• Conducting surveillance in poultry farms and wet markets to check for outbreaks.
• Urging the public to avoid consuming raw or undercooked poultry products.
• Educating communities about the risks of bird flu and proper food handling practices.

Rising Global Concerns Over Bird Flu

The case comes amid growing global concerns over bird flu outbreaks. Recent H5N1 cases have been reported in several countries, leading to mass culling of poultry to contain the virus.

As investigations continue, health experts are reminding the public of the importance of proper food hygiene and cooking practices to minimize the risk of infection.

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A two-year-old girl in southern India died from bird flu after eating raw chicken, the first fatality linked to the H5N1 strain since 2021.

The toddler, from Palnadu district in Andhra Pradesh state, died on 15 March after developing fever, breathing difficulties and diarrhoea.

Authorities said the child contracted the virus after consuming raw chicken. It was not clear if she had been deliberately fed the meat or accidentally eaten it.

She was initially admitted to a local health centre but taken to a city hospital on 4 March after her condition deteriorated.

A sample test for avian influenza of H5N1 strain at the hospital returned positive, and the patient eventually died despite receiving appropriate medical treatment, the hospital said in a statement.