Cambodian authorities have confirmed a new human case of H5N1 avian influenza, this time involving a three-year-old boy in Oddar Meanchey province. The case marks the country’s third infection this year, amid warnings from health officials that the virus is showing signs of evolution and could spread from poultry to humans more easily.

The Health Ministry said the boy, from Tomnup Thmei village in Banteay Ampil district, tested positive on 29 March after samples were analysed by the National Institute of Public Health. Reports indicate he had been in close contact with his family’s poultry, where chickens and ducks had recently fallen ill and died. He is now under hospital care.

Authorities have launched a coordinated response involving both human and animal health teams. Measures include tracing contacts, assessing community risk, and administering antiviral medication to those considered at risk. Local agricultural officials are also working to contain the virus among poultry in the area.

The new case follows two earlier infections in Cambodia this year: a 45-year-old woman in Banteay Meanchey province confirmed two weeks ago, and a 30-year-old man in Kampot province in mid-February.

Health officials continue to advise people to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and to report any unusual deaths among poultry immediately.