Russia: Human cases of avian influenza H5N8 reported among poultry plant workers in southern regions

Event

Russian authorities have identified seven cases of avian influenza H5N8 in southern parts of the country, representing the first known human cases of the disease globally. Details regarding the location of the infections in southern Russia were not provided. The seven infected individuals were identified in December 2020 but were not confirmed and reported to the WHO until February. All seven individuals worked at a poultry processing plant and were therefore exposed to infected birds. None of the individuals presented with respiratory symptoms and all remain healthy. There is no evidence of human-to-human transmission of avian influenza H5N8, and the risk of an outbreak among humans remains very low. This represents the most complete information available as of Feb. 24.

Context

Avian influenza H5N8 was identified among domestic poultry and in wild birds in Russia during August 2020. When they occur, the rare instances of avian influenza infection among humans are usually found among poultry workers or individuals visiting wet markets where live poultry are kept and slaughtered. There is no risk of infection from consuming fully cooked poultry.

Avian influenza refers to a group of bird diseases caused by viruses that rarely spread to humans. Many different viruses cause avian influenza, one of which is A(H5N8). H5N8 likely spreads through close contact with infected birds or products from infected birds. While the first known human cases in Russia were asymptomatic (displayed no symptoms), likely symptoms of infection would include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

Advice

Avoid contact with wild birds and live or recently dead poultry, especially if bird flocks have experienced widespread sudden deaths. Wash hands often and routinely clean areas, surfaces, and objects that come in contact with birds, bird products, or bird droppings.