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Thailand steps up monitoring at Cambodian border amid rise in bird flu cases

Thailand's health authorities have increased monitoring at the Cambodian border. ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI Thailand steps up monitoring at Cambodian border amid rise in bird flu cases Thailand's health authorities have increased monitoring at the Cambodian border following the confirmation of a seventh human case of H5N1 avian influenza in Cambodia in 2025. Thailand's Ministry of Public Health's Permanent Secretary, Dr Opas Karnkawinpong, confirmed that while the country has not reported any human H5N1 cases in nearly 20 years, surveillance remains ongoing, especially given recent cases in neighbouring countries. Cambodian health officials recently reported their seventh H5N1 bird flu human infection in 2025. The patient is a 41-year-old woman who experienced fever, cough, and difficulty breathing after exposure to poultry that had died of illness near her home. The Thai government is applying a ' One Health ' approach, coordinating efforts between the Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, the local authorities, and other relevant agencies to monitor and manage the risk, Dr Opas said. He advised the public to avoid contact with sick or dead poultry, not to consume animals that have died from unknown causes, and to maintain good hygiene practices. He also recommended wearing gloves when handling poultry and washing hands thoroughly afterwards. Anyone experiencing symptoms after visiting areas with reported outbreaks should seek medical attention promptly and inform health officials, the doctor urged. 'Officials continue to monitor the situation closely and encourage public cooperation to help reduce the risk of avian influenza transmission,' he said. As of June 27, Cambodia has recorded five deaths among seven confirmed cases in 2025, indicating a high fatality rate. Three of these cases occurred in June, with most patients presenting severe symptoms. THE NATION/ASIA NEWS NETWORK Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.