Cambodia Confirms New Human Case of H5N1 Bird Flu

PHNOM PENH, March 16, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s health ministry has confirmed a new human case of H5N1 avian influenza after a 45 year old woman in Banteay Meanchey province tested positive for the virus.

The infection was detected on March 14 by the National Institute of Public Health. Officials said the woman, who raises poultry at home, had handled a dead chicken three days before testing positive. Sick and dying poultry had been reported in her village prior to the case.

She was admitted to hospital the same day and placed in isolation, where doctors are treating her with the antiviral drug oseltamivir. Rapid response teams are working with agriculture officials to investigate the outbreak, trace contacts, and distribute medication.

Authorities urged vigilance, warning that H5N1 remains a public health threat. They advised people to avoid contact with sick or dead poultry, cook meat and eggs thoroughly, and report unusual poultry deaths or flu like symptoms.

Human infections are rare but can be severe, health officials said.