DOH: OFW with bird flu symptoms dies

MANILA, Philippines - A 52-year-old Filipino who worked as a musician in China for six years died of “suspected” bird flu six days after returning to the Philippines on Feb. 9, the Department of Health (DOH) said yesterday.

But acting Health Secretary Janette Garin clarified that the Philippines remains free from bird flu and it “has never had a case” since the first human infections were recorded in Hong Kong in 1997.

Garin said the patient was feeling weak, so he decided to come home “to be with his family” last Feb. 9. The following day, he developed cough, fever and diarrhea so he sought consultation on Feb. 11. On Feb. 12, his condition worsened so he went to a hospital but refused confinement. He died on Feb. 14.

“Because of his symptoms and the fast progression of his condition, plus history of travel in China, coupled with history of being exposed to live poultry, the patient was considered a possible case of Avian Influenza or bird flu,” Garin told a press briefing.

The patient underwent three x-ray and biopsy examinations and initial results revealed pulmonary findings, but these were inconclusive. To accurately establish his illness, he had to be autopsied.

However, Garin said the experts from Hong Kong who guided Filipino experts in looking after the patient have recommended against an autopsy because it will put embalmers at risk.

The Hong Kong experts also cautioned that opening the body may lead to the spread of the virus, so the body was cremated.

“If the patient really contracted bird flu, his death has ended the possibility of transmission. The case is considered closed. We have nothing to worry, but we have to remain vigilant and help spread the right information to our fellow Filipino who are working in countries reporting bird flu,” Garin explained.

Even those who had close contacts with the patient were closely monitored for one week, which ended on Feb. 21, and were given prophylaxis treatment using Tamiflu, a preventive antibiotic. They did not manifest any symptom.  – With Mayen Jaymalin