The Secretaría de Salud confirmed the first human case of avian influenza A (H5N1) in Mexico, involving a three-year-old girl from Durango. The diagnosis was confirmed by the Instituto de Diagnóstico y Referencia Epidemiológicos (InDRE) on April 1, 2025, and the patient is currently hospitalized in a serious condition in Torreón, Coahuila.
In a statement released on April 4, the health authorities reported that the girl received initial treatment with oseltamivir, an antiviral medication, and is being monitored closely in a third-level medical unit. The case has raised concerns, prompting immediate action from health officials.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the risk posed by the H5N1 virus to the general population is considered low. The organization has noted that while H5N1 can be transmitted from infected birds to humans, there is currently no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission. This is an important distinction, as it implies that the general public is not at significant risk from this strain of avian influenza.
The Secretaría de Salud has taken proactive measures in response to the confirmed case. They have notified the WHO in accordance with the International Health Regulations, emphasizing the importance of transparency and international cooperation in handling potential health threats. Additionally, health personnel in Durango and Coahuila have been trained on the national guidelines for preparing for, preventing, and responding to zoonotic influenza outbreaks.
The health authorities have also initiated targeted operations to identify other potential cases of respiratory viral illness in the region surrounding the girl's home. These efforts include biological sampling of wild and synanthropic birds by the Secretaría de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (Semarnat) and the Comisión Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas (Conanp).
To further mitigate risks, the Secretaría de Salud has issued a series of public health recommendations. These include frequent hand washing with soap and water or alcohol-based solutions, wearing masks in the presence of respiratory symptoms, and ensuring that poultry and eggs are cooked thoroughly (to an internal temperature greater than 70°C).
Furthermore, the authorities advise against handling sick or dead birds and recommend using protective gear for individuals working in farms or slaughterhouses. It is vital for the public to remain vigilant and report any unusual illnesses or deaths among birds to the appropriate authorities.
Despite the seriousness of the situation, the Mexican health officials have reassured the public that there is no current evidence of commercial poultry farms being affected by the H5N1 virus. The Servicio Nacional de Sanidad, Inocuidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria (Senasica) continues to monitor the situation closely.
Historically, the H5N1 virus has been known to cause severe respiratory illness in birds, and it can also infect humans, leading to a range of symptoms from mild to severe, and in some cases, it can be fatal. The WHO has documented sporadic human infections since 1997, with more than 890 cases reported globally from 2003 to date.
In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that as of March 2025, there have been 70 human infections of avian influenza H5. However, the CDC has not been able to isolate the virus, which complicates efforts to determine its specific subtype.
The Mexican health authorities are committed to ensuring public safety and have a strategic reserve of 40,000 doses of oseltamivir available for distribution if necessary. They continue to monitor the health of the girl and any potential spread of the virus.
In summary, while the detection of the first human case of avian influenza A (H5N1) in Mexico is concerning, the risk to the general population remains low. Health officials are taking appropriate measures to manage the situation and protect public health.
