Avian Influenza (Human H7N9 - H5N6) (Update)

09 Feb 2016

The National Health and Family Planning Commission in China have released the 5 monthly report on human infection with avian influenza. Between September 2015, and 01 February 2016, a total of 44 human cases of avian influenza (H7N9), including 10 fatalities have been reported in mainland China. This is 70 cases less than during the same time period of previous year.

During the same time period, a total of 5 human cases of avian influenza (H5N6), including 2 fatalities have been reported. Since the first human case of H5N6 in 2014, China has reported 9 cases including 5 fatalities.

Advice for Travellers

As the Year of the Monkey begins on February 8, 2016, there will be an increase in travellers from the UK to China to celebrate the Lunar New Year with friends and relatives. It is important that travellers are aware of the risk of avian influenza and know the steps to take to reduce their risk.

• Further information on avian influenza.
• Avian influenza advice for travellers.

Travellers experiencing severe flu like symptoms within 10 days of returning from China, should contact their GP and inform them of their recent travel to China.