 Global update on avian influenza25 November 2005
Despite growing concerns for the next pandemic, the world currently remains in phase 3 of the pandemic alert period according
to WHO criteria. This implies that although human infections with avian influenza A (H5N1) are continuing to occur there is as
yet no evidence for efficient or sustainable spread in the human population.
China recently reported its first 2 cases of human infection with avian influenza H5N1 following a resurgence of several
outbreaks in poultry of which there have been 11 since mid-October. The human cases include a 9 year old boy from Hunan
province who recovered fully and a 24 year old poultry worker from Anhui who died on November 10th. A further 2 possible
cases in China are suspected but have not been laboratory confirmed. Indonesia has also recently reported 2 new cases in
humans. Infection in humans remains associated with a history of close contact with infected poultry.
As of November 17th 2005, a total of 130 laboratory confirmed avian influenza A (H5N1) have been reported with 67 deaths.
No additional human cases have been reported outside of the 5 affected countries namely Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand,
Cambodia and China.
Source: World Health Organisation 
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