Avian influenza - situation in Egypt - update 4

9 February 2009 -- The Ministry of Health and Population of Egypt has announced a new human case of avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection. The case is a one and a half year old male from the Maghagha District of Menia Governorate. His symptoms began on 6 February and he was hospitalized at the Maghagha Fever Hospital on 7 February where he remains in a stable condition. Infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus was confirmed by the Egyptian Central Public Health Laboratory.

Investigations into the source of his infection indicate a history of close contact with dead poultry prior to becoming ill.

Of the 55 cases confirmed to date in Egypt, 23 have been fatal.