An Egyptian woman from Dekernis in the Delta governorate of Dakahlia, died of bird flu, the Health Ministry Spokesman said on Sunday 30/12/2007.

Abdel-Rahman Shahin said Fatima Fathi Mohamed, 25, was confirmed to have died after contracting the virus.

The first case of bird flu was discovered in Egypt early 2006.

The latest victim tested positive for the H5N1 virus, the spokesman said, adding that she was admitted to Dekernis fever hospital three days ago after suffering from breathing problems and pneumonitis.

She was transferred to Mansura chest hospital where she died early Sunday, said Shahin.

The new death took to 17 the number of Egyptians who have died of the deadly virus since it first emerged in Egypt in February of last year.


31/12/2007