Egyptian Boy Has Bird Flu

A four-year-old Egyptian boy has been diagnosed as having contracted the deadly H5N1 bird flu virus, state news agency MENA quoted the health ministry as announcing on Saturday.

Emad Mohammed al-Daramalli, from the Upper Egypt province of Qena, was hospitalised with a high fever on Thursday.

He became the 37th case of the virus reported in Egypt since the first outbreak was announced in February 2006.

The report said that he was being treated with Tamiflu, and that his condition was stable.

A 10-year-old girl died of bird flu earlier in June, bringing to 15 the number of fatalities in Egypt.

Egypt's geographical location on major bird migration routes and the widespread practice of keeping domestic fowl near living quarters have led to it being the hardest-hit country outside of Asia.

Women and children have borne the brunt of the virus due to their role in taking care of domestic fowl.

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The government says it is conducting a vigorous campaign to combat the spread of the virus through vaccinations and raising awareness, but cases continue to appear.

Source-AFP
LIN/M