Avian flu: there is a case of a person in Lombardy, the first in Europe.

The Lombardy Region has identified a case of low pathogenicity avian influenza virus A(H9N2) infection in a vulnerable person with underlying diseases from a non-European country where the infection was contracted, and who is currently hospitalized. This was announced by the Ministry of Health.

This is the first human case of the H9N2 avian influenza strain detected in Europe.

Based on the scientific information currently available, the ministry explains in a note, transmission occurs through direct exposure to infected poultry or to contaminated environments or materials. Human cases are characterized by mild illness and person-to-person transmission has never been reported.

All necessary checks have been promptly carried out and the contacts of the case have been identified as part of the regular prevention and surveillance activities.

The Ministry of Health has immediately activated coordination with the Lombardy Region, the Higher Institute of Health, and the group of national reference laboratory experts, and has ensured coordination and updates with the relevant international bodies. Currently, no critical issues have been detected and the situation is being constantly monitored.