The United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has detected the first human case of a strain of swine flu. The patient, whose identity was not revealed, suffered from a mild illness and fully recovered. The source of infection is being investigated.
Influenza A (H1N2) is similar to influenza viruses currently circulating among pigs in the United Kingdom. second Meera Chandincident manager at UKHSA, said this virus was possible to detect thanks to routine influenza surveillance and genome sequencing.
“This is the first time we have detected this virus in humans in the UK, although it is very similar to viruses detected in pigs. We are working quickly to trace close contacts and reduce any potential spread. In accordance with established protocols, investigations are underway,” the director explained. To find out how an individual became infected and assess whether there are more cases associated with it.
Swine influenza and background of influenza viruses
Influenza A(H1) viruses are endemic in pigs in most regions of the world. When the influenza virus that normally circulates in pigs is detected in someone, it is called “mutated influenza virus.”
H1N1, H1N2, and H3N2 are the main subtypes of swine influenza A virus that infects pigs and occasionally infects humans, usually after direct or indirect exposure to pigs or contaminated environments.
A total of 50 human cases of influenza A(H1N2) have been reported globally since 2005; None of them were genetically related to this breed. Influenza A(H1N2) virus has not previously been detected in humans in the UK. Human infections with swine influenza viruses occur sporadically.
Swine flu pandemic
In 2009, there was a human pandemic caused by an influenza virus (influenza A H1N1(pdm09)) commonly referred to as “swine flu”. This virus contains genetic material from viruses that were circulating in pigs, birds and humans in the 1990s and 2000s.
H1N1 influenza (pdm09) now circulates seasonally among humans and is no longer called swine flu. It differs from the viruses currently spreading in pigs.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. To clarify any additional doubts about pathology, medication or treatment, talk to a healthcare professional you trust. Always avoid self-medication.
