ProMED: USA (ARKANSAS) H1N1V, HUMAN CASES

[Information on the right side-bar for H1N1V]

Published Date: 2013-09-14 16:20:28
Archive Number: 20130914.1944711

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Date: Fri 13 Sep 2013
Source: OzarksFirst.com [edited]
http://www.ozarksfirst.com/story/cdc-confirms-two-cases-of-swine-flu-variant-in-arkansas/d/story/UntZrcaHBEeFXkp755fDdQ


Two people in Arkansas have been infected with the strain of influenza virus known as H1N1(v) after contact with pigs. The cases have been confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) says the variant influenza virus [designated H1N1v], occurs when an influenza virus that normally circulates in swine is detected in a person. "Viruses of this type typically cause only mild illness in those affected and, in contrast to seasonal flu, are not easily transmitted from person to person," writes Dr Dirk Haselow, State Epidemiologist, in a news release.

ADH says it has carefully monitored the patient contacts for several days without evidence of any human to human spread. Both patients identified to date have recovered fully; it's unclear at this time where in Arkansas the cases were located. When humans are in close proximity to live swine, such as in barns and livestock exhibits at fairs, movement of these viruses can occur back and forth between humans and animals. ADH says influenza has not been shown to be transmitted by eating properly handled and prepared pork or other products derived from pigs.

Case investigations have indicated that the illnesses resulting from H1N1(v) infection have been similar to seasonal influenza. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, decreased energy, coughing, runny nose, and sore throat. Contact your health care provider if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms and inform the doctor if you have had contact with swine.

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