Nov 16, Kathmandu - A 22-year-old man in Cambodia has died from the H5N1 flu, the Ministry of Health said.

H5N1 is a type of influenza virus that causes bird flu. It is considered a health risk due to its high mortality rate.

People infected with H5N1 usually experience fever, cough, sore throat and difficulty breathing. The virus is usually spread through direct contact with infected birds and their secretions (feces, saliva and droppings). Although human-to-human transmission is rare, the risk of a pandemic could increase if the virus mutates.

According to the Ministry of Health, the man was confirmed to be infected with the H5N1 virus on 15 November 2025 in a laboratory test conducted at the National Institute of Public Health.

The deceased man lived in Ken Khleng village, Chrouy Changvar district, capital Phnom Penh. Health officials have launched an investigation to determine the source of the infection and are testing people who have been in contact with the deceased to prevent the spread in the community.

In addition, people who have had direct contact with the infected have been given Tamiflu (oseltamivir), which helps prevent the spread of the flu.

The H5N1 flu is most often spread by sick birds, but can also sometimes be transmitted to humans. The Ministry of Health has urged the public to be vigilant and not eat sick birds.

According to the ministry, 17 cases of H5N1 infection have been reported in Cambodia so far this year, including six deaths.