FAO rules out human-to-animal transmission of H7N9 avian influenza

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) says there is no evidence that human patients infected with H7N9 avian influenza can transmit the virus to animals, including birds. FAO referred to the first human case of H7N9 outside China, which was recently detected in Malaysia. The patient, originally from Guangdong Province in China, where she is thought to have contracted the infection, was visiting Malaysia as a tourist and has now been hospitalized there. Guangdong is one of the Chinese provinces most affected by the H7N9 virus in 2014. “This case does not come as a surprise and should not be a cause for increased concern, but should remind the world to remain vigilant,” said FAO Chief Veterinary Officer Juan Lubroth. Read More