Europe's First Human H9N2 Infection
Italy has confirmed the first human case of H9N2 avian influenza ever recorded in Europe. The patient, who arrived from outside the continent, was hospitalized in the Lombardy region with a diagnosis of influenza A(H9N2) and has underlying health conditions. The Italian Ministry of Health confirmed the case on March 25, and the individual remains in isolation in the hospital. This development highlights the global nature of infectious disease spread, even as the immediate risk to the public is considered low.
Infection Case Data
According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), 195 human cases of A(H9N2) were registered in ten Asian and African countries between 1998 and February 27, 2026. Human infections most commonly occur through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. Notably, from November 29, 2025, to February 27, 2026, ten human cases of avian flu were reported, none of which were fatal; all were recorded in Cambodia and China.
In a separate development, the world's first human fatality from the H5N5 avian flu virus occurred in Washington state in November 2025. The deceased, a resident of Grays Harbor County, had been hospitalized in King County since early November 2025. Commenting on the new H9N2 case, the Italian Ministry of Health stated:
"All necessary checks were promptly carried out, and the patient's contacts have been identified as part of routine prevention and surveillance measures."
The detection of H9N2 in Italy underscores the critical need for continued monitoring and control of avian flu epidemics, particularly given globalization and increased international travel. Vigilance is essential, as the risk of further virus spread can increase through contact with infected poultry. This incident may also influence public health policies and preventive measures in other European nations as authorities work to prevent potential outbreaks.