LONDON: Public health officials in the UK announced on Monday the confirmation of the first human case of a swine flu strain, H1N2, similar to one circulating in pigs. The case was identified in an individual who sought medical testing after experiencing respiratory symptoms.
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), this variant of the H1N2 virus has not been previously detected in humans in the country.
The incident director of the UKHSA, Meera Chand, stated, “This is the first time we have detected this virus in humans in the UK, though it is very similar to viruses that have been detected in pigs. We are working rapidly to trace close contacts and reduce any potential spread.”
Investigation into Source of Swine Flu Infection
The individual who tested positive for the swine flu variant experienced a mild illness and has fully recovered, as reported by the agency. However, the source of the infection remains undetermined and is currently under investigation.
Christine Middlemiss, the chief veterinary officer at UKHSA, highlighted that veterinary and scientific knowledge is being employed to support the ongoing probe into the source of the infection.
Swine influenza A viruses, including H1N1, H1N2, and H3N2, are endemic in swine populations globally. These viruses occasionally infect humans, typically after exposure to pigs or contaminated environments.
The H1N1 pandemic in 2009 was a significant influenza outbreak, marking the first major influenza event in the 21st century. The official death count of 18,500 was later revised upwards to a range between 151,700 and 575,400 by The Lancet medical journal.
