The Ministry of Health in Mexico confirmed the world’s first death from avian influenza A (H5N2) in a 59-year-old man with chronic kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension.
Despite the fatality, there is no identified risk of contagion to the population, as no infection source has been found. The patient’s sample-tested positive for the low pathogenicity H5N2 virus, and all contacts tested negative.
Avian influenza typically affects birds, and is naturally found in waterfowl, thriving in cold and humid conditions. While the virus can occasionally infect humans, human-to-human transmission has not been observed. The World Health Organization (WHO) considers the public health risk from H5N2 to be low, stating that well-cooked poultry products are safe for consumption.
Following the death, extensive epidemiological surveillance and international communication were initiated. Health personnel received training, and environmental monitoring was implemented to detect further cases.
Although no human vaccine for H5N2 exists, monitoring efforts continue to track any changes in the virus’s transmission patterns.
The WHO and health authorities emphasize that this virus is unlikely to cause a pandemic, although vigilance remains high due to its potential impact on public health.