Receiving many samples of suspected H5N1 virus

Recently, the National Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases received many patients suspected of being infected with H5N1.

On June 6, at the meeting of the National Steering Committee for Avian Influenza Prevention and Control, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Duc Hien - Director of the National Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases said that the current health of 2 patients infected with influenza A / H5N1 virus has stabilized, removed mask to support breathing instead of oxygen. The lesions in the lungs and other organs of organs did not progress.

Last week, the Institute also received 3 more suspected patients with influenza A / H5N1.

Study of H5N1 virus at the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (Photo: L. Ha)

Since the emergence of two H5N1 patients, the National Institute of Infectious and Tropical Diseases has repeatedly received a series of suspected samples of the virus from upland hospitals. With testing technology supported by experts from England, the National Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases has tested these specimens. However, has not recorded any cases of influenza A / H5N1 infection.

This time, Dr. Nguyen Duc Hien also petitioned the Ministry of Health to direct lower medical facilities when detecting that patients suspected of being infected with influenza A / H5N1 should immediately transfer to the Institute for screening and timely treatment. , avoid missing patients.

In previous outbreaks, patients rarely showed pneumothorax, but with this positive case, both suffered severe pneumothorax with multiple organ failure. This is an essential factor to supplement the criteria for detection and classification of patients suspected of being infected with influenza A / H5N1.

Khanh Chi