The United States informed the World Health Organization that it had found first case human infection with a pathogen new variant of influenza A (H1N2) virusidentified in Michigan,
According to WHO and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a case under 18 years olddid not require hospitalization and is recovering from the illness.
Investigations by local health authorities identified patient contact with pigs at an agricultural fair as a possible vector for the infection. For now, no evidence that “sustained transmission” has occurred from person to person.
The minor had fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, headache, shortness of breath, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, and lethargy. On July 29, he went to the emergency room, and on July 30, a sample of the upper respiratory tract was taken. The sample tested positive for influenza A virus. same day. On August 1, he received antiviral treatment for influenza (oseltamivir).
This is the first influenza A(H1N2) virus infection detected in the United States this year. Since 2005, 512 infections virus variant A influenza (all subtypes), including 37 (human infections with influenza A(H1N2) viruses in the United States.
Swine influenza A(H1N2) viruses circulate in swine populations in many regions of the world. Human infection usually occurs through direct or indirect contact with pigs or contaminated environments. There may be important antigenic and genetic differences between seasonal influenza viruses that circulate worldwide in humans and influenza viruses that normally circulate in pigs.
Non-seasonal or zoonotic influenza viruses that infect humans can cause diseases ranging from from mild conjunctivitis to severe pneumonia and even death; These human zoonotic influenza infections are usually acquired through direct contact with infected animals or in a contaminated environment.
In a statement, WHO clarified that this case does not change current recommendations for public health measures and seasonal influenza surveillance. That is, special screening of travelers at points of entry and restrictions are not recommended regarding the current situation with influenza viruses in human and animal contact.
Anyway yes recommend avoiding contact with animals that are sick or dead for unknown reasons, including wildlife, and report deaths of wild birds and mammals or request their removal by contacting your local wildlife or veterinary authorities.
WHO advises travelers to countries with known outbreaks of animal influenza. avoid farms, contact with animals in live animal markets, entering areas where animals may be slaughtered, or contact with any surface that may be contaminated with animal excrement. Travelers should also wash their hands frequently with soap and water.