Mexico reports first human H5N1 avian flu death: 3-year-old girl dies in Coahuila. Health authorities monitor contacts, stress global pandemic risks.

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First Human Case of Avian Flu A (H5N1) Detected in Mexico: 3-Year-Old Girl in Serious Condition

In a tragic event that has shocked the nation, a 3-year-old girl died on Tuesday in Coahuila, Mexico, due to “multiple organ failure,” marking the first human case of avian flu (H5N1) in the country.

The news was confirmed by the state Secretary of Health, Eliud Aguirre, who stated the child was hospitalized at Social Security Hospital 71.

“Early this morning, we received confirmation of the girl’s unfortunate death, as she suffered multiple organ failure,” Aguirre told local media, expressing his condolences.

The virus was detected in the girl after a confirmatory test by the Institute for Epidemiological Diagnosis and Reference (InDRE), announced by the federal health secretary last Friday.

The source of infection remains unclear, and health authorities are conducting extensive monitoring of the girl’s close contacts to identify potential cases. So far, “no one has tested positive.”

Aguirre assured that authorities remain on alert and will continue surveillance to prevent further infections. “We are monitoring for additional cases, and none have emerged in Coahuila to date,” he added.

H5N1 has raised global concerns, with countries like Cambodia and the U.S. reporting deaths linked to the virus this year. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns of H5N1’s potential to evolve into a pandemic, though human transmission remains limited.

Human avian flu infections are rare but can lead to severe illness with high mortality rates, typically linked to close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.

This case underscores the importance of epidemiological vigilance and preparedness for zoonotic disease outbreaks.

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