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Europe has recorded its first confirmed human infection with the avian influenza virus H9N2, marking a significant moment in the continent’s public health surveillance. Italian authorities reported the case in Lombardy, where the patient is currently receiving isolated hospital care.
The Case in Lombardy
The infection was detected in a man of African origin living in Lombardy, who is believed to have contracted the virus abroad. He is being treated at San Gerardo Hospital in Monza and has pre-existing health conditions that may complicate his recovery. Italian health officials immediately initiated contact tracing and preventive measures, and all identified contacts have tested negative.
Public Health Assessment
Health authorities emphasize that there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission of H9N2. Epidemiologist Gianni Rezza stated that the situation does not pose an alarm for Italy, though monitoring remains active. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) also assesses the risk to the general population in the EU/EEA as very low.
Global Context
Since 1998, 195 human cases of H9N2 have been reported across ten countries in Asia and Africa, with only two fatalities. No clusters or confirmed person-to-person transmission have been documented. Most infections occur through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.
Comparison with Other Avian Influenza Strains
A more aggressive strain, H5N1, has caused around a thousand human infections globally since the early 2000s, with a high mortality rate. Cases have been detected in Europe, Asia, and Africa, though they remain rare. Like H9N2, H5N1 typically spreads through direct exposure to infected poultry or contaminated surroundings.
Surveillance and Preparedness
Italian and European health agencies continue to monitor the situation closely. The ECDC collaborates with international partners to track zoonotic influenza trends and publishes regular reports on avian influenza activity. Their current evaluation underscores that sporadic human cases are expected in regions where avian influenza circulates among birds.
- source: krone.at/picture: canva.com
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