First human case of H9N2 avian influenza detected in Europe

Italy’s Ministry of Health has reported the first human case of H9N2 avian influenza in Europe. The case was identified in the northern Lombardy region, according to an official statement obtained by TASS.

The infection occurred outside Europe “through direct contact with infected poultry or contaminated environments or materials.”

“The low-pathogenicity avian influenza A(H9N2) virus of animal origin has been detected in an immunocompromised individual with underlying health conditions. The patient is currently hospitalised. All necessary tests were conducted promptly, and the patient’s contacts have been traced as part of routine preventive and epidemiological measures. At present, no critical issues have been identified, and the situation is under control,” the statement said.

The ministry also noted that in humans, the virus typically causes a mild illness, and no cases of human-to-human transmission have been recorded to date.