The World Health Organization is working with Cambodian authorities after two confirmed human cases of H5N1 bird flu were found in one family in the country.
Describing the situation as "worrying" due to the recent rise in cases in birds and mammals, Dr. Sylvie Briand, the director of the epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention, told reporters in a virtual briefing that WHO was reviewing its global risk assessment in light of the recent developments.
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Cambodian authorities on Thursday reported the death of an 11-year-old girl due to H5N1 and began testing 12 of her contacts. Her father, who had been showing symptoms, has also tested positive for the virus.
"The global H5N1 situation is worrying given the wide spread of the virus in birds around the world and the increasing reports of cases in mammals including humans," Briand said. "WHO takes the risk from this virus seriously and urges heightened vigilance from all countries."
In February, Argentina and Uruguay each declared national sanitary emergencies after officials confirmed the countries' first infections. Argentina found the virus in wild birds, while dead swans in Uruguay tested positive.
Countries including Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia in recent months reported their first cases.
