Related Experiment Videos
Atypical avian influenza (H5N1)
Anucha Apisarnthanarak1, Rungrueng Kitphati, Kanokporn Thongphubeth
1Thammasart University Hospital, Klong Luang, Pratumthani, Thailand. anapisarn@yahoo.com
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|August 25, 2004
Summary
Avian influenza, a bird flu, can present with gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, not just respiratory problems. Consider avian influenza in patients with digestive symptoms and poultry exposure.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Avian influenza is a viral infection primarily affecting birds.
- Human cases are typically associated with respiratory symptoms.
Observation:
- A patient presented with fever and diarrhea, exhibiting no respiratory distress.
- The patient had a history of exposure to poultry.
Findings:
- This case represents the first documented instance of avian influenza presenting solely with gastrointestinal symptoms.
- The patient's clinical presentation deviated from the typical respiratory manifestations of avian influenza.
Implications:
- Avian influenza should be considered in the differential diagnosis for unexplained gastrointestinal illness.
- Clinicians should inquire about poultry exposure in patients with severe gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Early recognition of atypical avian influenza presentations is crucial for public health surveillance and control.