A 30-year-old Cambodian man has recovered from H5N1 avian influenza, marking the country’s first human case this year after contact with dead poultry.

KAMPOT: A 30-year-old man from southwest Cambodia has been confirmed as the country’s first human case of H5N1 avian influenza in 2026.

The Ministry of Health said the patient, from Meanrith village in Tuek Chhou district, Kampot province, exhibited symptoms including fever, cough and abdominal pain.

He has since recovered after receiving intensive medical care and was discharged home.

Investigations revealed there were dead chickens at the patient’s residence. These chickens were cooked and consumed three days before he fell ill.

Health authorities are now investigating the exact source of the infection. They are examining suspected cases and contacts to prevent a community outbreak.

The antiviral drug Tamiflu (oseltamivir) has been distributed to people who had direct contact with the man as a preventive measure.

H5N1 influenza normally spreads among poultry but can sometimes transmit to humans. Symptoms can range from fever and cough to severe respiratory illness. – Bernama-Xinhua

 The Sun Malaysia