China has reported the first confirmed human case of the H3N8 strain of avian flu.

China's National Health Commission (NHC) on Tuesday confirmed that a four-year-old boy in central Henan province tested positive for H3N8 strain following hospitalisation earlier in April with a fever and other symptoms. However, authorities say that there is a low risk of widespread transmission among people.

H3N8 has been circulating since 2002 - with infection seen in horses, dogs, seals and waterfowl - but has not been previously detected in humans.

Avian influenza mainly occurs in wild birds and poultry. However, NHC has advised people to stay away from dead or sick birds and seek medical assistance if symptoms present.