Confirmation Of Human Swine Flu Case In The United Kingdom

(CTN News) – The detection of a confirmed human case of swine flu, specifically influenza A(H1N2)v, has been announced today by the U.K. Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

In most regions of the world, influenza A(H1) viruses are commonly found in swine populations. Since 2005, there have been a total of 50 reported human cases of influenza A(H1N2)v globally.

In August 2023, a novel variant virus of influenza A(H1N2) was confirmed to have infected a human in Michigan, United States.

This is the first time that the U.K. has detected the Swine Flu A(H1N2)v strain in a human.

Fortunately, the individual affected by this Swine Flu strain experienced a mild illness and has made a full recovery.
After experiencing respiratory symptoms, the individual underwent testing by their G.P.

The UKHSA utilized polymerase chain reaction testing to detect the Influenza A(H1N2)v virus and characterized it through genome sequencing.

The source of the infection is currently under investigation, and UKHSA and partner organizations are following up with close contacts of the case. Any contacts will be offered testing as needed and advised on further care if they exhibit symptoms or test positive.

The case was identified as part of the routine national flu surveillance conducted by UKHSA and the Royal College of General Practitioners.

On November 27, 2023, Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss released a statement emphasizing the significance of maintaining high standards of animal health, welfare, and biosecurity due to the potential transfer of animal diseases to humans.

The UKHSA investigation is being supported by veterinary and scientific experts, and pig keepers are urged to report any suspicion of swine flu in their herds to their local vet without delay. It is worth noting that as of 2023, neither the U.S. FDA nor the U.K. has approved a swine flu vaccine.

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