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Octobe 16, 2006
Situation Update: Avian Flu in Thailand, Indonesia and Iraq
Source: World Health Organization, Air Security International
In recent weeks the avian flu virus has affected additional individuals across Thailand, Indonesia and Iraq.
On October 16, 2006, the Ministry of Health in Indonesia has confirmed an additional three cases of human infection. All three cases were fatal. Of the 72 cases confirmed to date in Indonesia, 55 have been fatal. These numbers bring serious concern being that over 75% of the cases have resulted in death. International researchers have been investigating this extreme activity throughout Indonesia.
On September 27, 2006, the Ministry of Public Health in Thailand has confirmed the country’s 25th case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The case, which was fatal, was the third detected this year and the third fatality. Of the 25 cases confirmed to date in Thailand, 17 have been fatal.
During the avian flu outbreak in Iraq, which is now considered over, the country faced problems in the shipment of specimens for external verification of diagnostic tests. Since January 2006, three cases have been confirmed, resulting in two deaths. The third case, which ended with a full recovery, initially had inconclusive test results. After repeat testing using different methods, the results were confirmed.
For more information on avian flu and up-to-date case information around the globe, visit the World Health Organization.
The views expressed are solely those of the author and/or source and are not necessarily the views of Aetna Global Benefits. Similarly, the accuracy of this information is solely the responsibility of the author and/or source.