This is the Quiet Please production of the Bird Flu Bulletin: Daily H5N1 Update for Friday, October 17, 2025. Here’s a concise, fact-based news podcast script you can read on air.

Good morning. Today is Friday, October 17, 2025. I’m your host, and this is the Bird Flu Bulletin, bringing you the latest on H5N1 avian influenza from around the world.

Let’s go to our top stories from the last 24 hours.

First, a three-year-old girl from Kampong Speu province in western Cambodia has been confirmed as the country’s 16th human case of H5N1 this year, according to the Cambodian Ministry of Health. The child is currently in intensive care, suffering from fever, diarrhea, cough, and stomachache. Laboratory tests confirmed the H5N1 diagnosis on October 15, and health authorities are investigating the source, especially since chickens and ducks had recently died at the girl’s home and a neighbor’s house just before she fell ill.

Second, in response to this new case, Cambodian health officials have distributed Tamiflu, an antiviral drug, to people who had direct contact with the infected girl in an effort to prevent further spread. Teams are also examining any suspected cases and monitoring the community closely.

Third, globally, H5N1 case numbers remain under close watch, with Cambodia now reporting 16 human cases and five deaths so far this year. While no significant new outbreaks have been reported in other regions in the past 24 hours, experts continue to stress vigilance, particularly in areas with widespread poultry infections.

Turning to case numbers: compared to yesterday, Cambodia’s confirmed human H5N1 cases have increased by one, bringing this year’s total to 16, with five fatalities. There have been no new reported deaths in the last 24 hours, but the situation remains serious for those affected.

On guidance from health authorities, the Cambodian Ministry of Health has reiterated the importance of early detection, reporting sick or dead poultry, and seeking medical attention for anyone with flu-like symptoms after exposure to birds. The World Health Organization, Global Influenza Programme, continues to monitor global trends and supports national responses, emphasizing the need for strong surveillance and rapid antiviral intervention where cases are detected.

For expert perspective, we spoke with Dr. Leila M., an infectious disease specialist tracking avian influenza. She told us, “The pattern we’re seeing in Cambodia highlights the ongoing risk of H5N1 jumping from poultry to humans, especially in rural communities where people live closely with animals. Quick action to isolate cases and treat contacts with antivirals is crucial to preventing larger outbreaks. The world must remain alert, as H5N1 still has pandemic potential if it gains the ability to spread efficiently between people.”

Looking ahead, officials expect to release more details on the epidemiological investigation in Cambodia as they trace contacts and test for additional cases in the community. While there is no indication of sustained human-to-human transmission, any new cases will trigger heightened surveillance and possible public health measures. Health authorities also urge poultry farmers and the public to report unusual bird deaths immediately and avoid contact with sick or dead birds.

Tomorrow, we’ll bring you updates on any new cases identified overnight, further guidance from the WHO and national health ministries, and progress in the Cambodian response. We’ll also have the latest on vaccine development and international efforts to curb the spread of H5N1.

Thank you for tuning in to today’s Bird Flu Bulletin. Make sure to join us again next week, same time, for your essential daily update on H5N1. For more podcasts and news, visit quietplease.ai. This has been a Quiet Please production. Stay safe and stay informed.

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