Islamabad: A human case of avian influenza A (H9N2) has been reported in Italy, marking the first imported infection of its kind in the European region, World Health Organization (WHO) said on Saturday.
The patient, an adult male who had recently returned from Senegal, is recovering after receiving antiviral and supportive treatment, health authorities confirmed.
Avian influenza A (H9N2), commonly known as bird flu, is a subtype of the influenza virus that primarily circulates in poultry but can occasionally infect humans. While most infections cause mild respiratory illness, the virus is closely monitored by global health agencies due to its potential to mutate and trigger wider outbreaks, making it a matter of international public health concern.
The case was notified to WHO on March 21, 2026, under the International Health Regulations (IHR). Genetic sequencing confirmed the virus as Influenza A(H9N2), with close similarity to strains previously detected in poultry in Senegal. Epidemiological investigations suggest the infection was likely acquired from an avian source during the patient’s stay in West Africa.
The individual sought medical care after developing fever and a persistent cough upon arrival in Italy. Laboratory testing initially detected an unsubtypeable influenza A virus alongside Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The patient was placed in isolation and treated with antiviral drug oseltamivir and antitubercular therapy. By April 9, his condition was reported as stable and improving.
Despite extensive investigations, authorities found no direct exposure to poultry, wildlife, or symptomatic individuals. Contact tracing in both Senegal and Italy revealed no additional infections. All identified contacts tested negative and completed monitoring, with preventive antiviral treatment administered in accordance with national guidelines.
Human infections with A(H9N2) have been reported mainly in Asia and Africa, particularly in China, where the virus is endemic in poultry. The detection of this imported case in Europe highlights the risks posed by zoonotic diseases in an era of global travel and underscores the importance of surveillance and early detection.
Italian authorities activated national and regional response mechanisms, coordinating with international partners, including the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), under the One Health framework that integrates human, animal, and environmental health.
WHO has assessed the current risk to the general public as low, noting that existing evidence does not indicate sustained human-to-human transmission of the A(H9N2) virus. However, sporadic infections are expected in regions where the virus continues to circulate among poultry.
The UN health agency has advised the public to avoid contact with live animal markets and maintain good hand hygiene, particularly when handling poultry. It has not recommended any travel or trade restrictions in response to the case but continues to monitor the situation globally.
Experts warn that although the immediate threat remains limited, continued vigilance is essential as zoonotic influenza viruses like H9N2 have the potential to evolve, posing future pandemic risks if they acquire the ability to spread efficiently among humans.
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