Human cases of Avian Influenza A(H5N8) in Russia

On 26th February 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported detection of avian influenza A(H5N8) in 7 farm workers who were responding to an outbreak of avian influenza A(H5N8) in birds on a poultry farm in Astrakhan Oblast in Russia. All 7 cases were asymptomatic, and remained so throughout the medical observation period.

These are the first reported detection of avian influenza A(H5N8) in humans. The WHO advise that based on currently available information, the risk of human-to-human transmission remains low.

Advice for Travellers

Avian influenza (bird flu) is an influenza virus that spreads among birds. Rarely, the virus can spread to people who have had close contact with infected birds.

Travellers to countries where avian influenza has caused human disease should be aware of the potential risk of infection, particularly those visiting friends and relatives.

These travellers should be advised to avoid contact with:

• live poultry (chickens, ducks, geese, pigeons, quail) or any wild birds
• surfaces that may be contaminated with poultry/bird droppings
• commercial poultry farms, backyard poultry farms and live poultry markets
• sick or dead poultry and birds

Care should be taken when handling raw or undercooked poultry products. Travellers should be advised to:

• Maintain strict hand hygiene; particularly when preparing food, and before meals.
• Practise good respiratory hygiene and avoid close contact with people who appear unwell.
• Seek medical advice if respiratory/influenza-like symptoms develop during or after returning from countries where avian influenza has been reported.

See the TRAVAX Avian Influenza page and fitfortravel Avian Influenza advice for travellers page for further information.