Flu from pigs: UK detects first human case of H1N2

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed the first human case of flu strain H1N2, which has been circulating in pigs.

The UKHSA stated in a statement that the case was discovered in an individual who was checked by their GP after reporting respiratory symptoms.

The person in question had a "mild illness" and has now recovered, according to the UKHSA. The source of the infection is being looked into.


Close contacts of the case are being tracked down by UKHSA and will be tested.

After experiencing respiratory symptoms, the patient was tested by their GP in North Yorkshire. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing and genome sequencing were used to identify the strain.

Scientists do not know how transmissible the strain is or if there are any cases in the UK at this time.

There have been approximately 50 recorded occurrences of the H1N2 strain in people globally.

The person concerned is not known to have worked with pigs and has recovered completely.

Swine flu cases tend to rise in the autumn months, but human transmission is uncommon.

The UKHSA stated that those experiencing respiratory symptoms should continue to follow existing guidelines, such as avoiding contact with others while experiencing symptoms and exercising special caution around vulnerable people and the elderly.

"We were able to detect this virus thanks to routine flu surveillance and genome sequencing," said Meera Chand, Incident Director at UKHSA.

This is the first time we've seen this virus in humans in the UK, though it's quite similar to viruses found in pigs.

Chand added that they are working quickly to identify close contacts and limit any potential spread.

Investigations are continuing in accordance with established processes to identify how the individual contracted the virus and to see whether there are any other linked cases.

Christine Middlemiss, chief veterinary officer, stated, "We know that some animal diseases can be transmitted to humans, which is why high standards of animal health, welfare, and biosecurity are so important."

Middlemiss added that they work together to protect everyone through the animal and human surveillance systems.

In this case, they are providing veterinary and scientific expertise to assist the UKHSA investigation.

Pig-keepers or local pig breeders must also report any suspicion of swine flu in their herds to their local vet immediately.

FAQs:

Q1: What is H1N2?
A1: H1N2 is an Influenza A subtype.

Q2: What is pig flu?
A2: It is a combination of influenza viruses that infect pigs.