ISTANBUL

The death toll from H5N1 human avian influenza in Cambodia has risen to four this year, after an 11-year-old boy from the country’s western region died from the virus on Tuesday, according to a statement by the Health Ministry cited by Xinhua News on Wednesday.

The ministry confirmed that laboratory tests showed the boy had contracted the H5N1 strain of bird flu.

Officials noted that chickens and ducks near the boy’s home had fallen ill and died roughly a week before he developed symptoms.

Authorities are currently investigating the source of the infection and are monitoring suspected cases as well as individuals who may have had contact with the boy, in a bid to prevent a possible outbreak.

H5N1 influenza, commonly known as bird flu, typically spreads among infected poultry but can occasionally be transmitted to humans. Symptoms may include fever, coughing, nasal discharge, and severe respiratory complications.

The Health Ministry has urged the public to remain vigilant, avoid contact with sick or dead poultry, and follow preventive guidelines, warning that the virus continues to pose a threat.

Since 2003, Cambodia has recorded 76 confirmed human cases of H5N1, including 47 fatalities.