A rare variant of the swine flu virus has been found in humans for the first time in Great Britain. In North Yorkshire, the influenza A(H1N2)v pathogen was discovered during routine surveillance using a PCR test. How the infection occurred remains a mystery.
According to the British health authority, the virus is similar to the virus currently circulating among pigs. The affected person had breathing difficulties and a mild course of the disease, but has now fully recovered. The pathogen was discovered during routine national flu surveillance.
“This is the first time we have detected this virus in people in Britain, although it is very similar to viruses detected in pigs,” said Meera Chand, director of the agency. „We are working quickly to identify close contacts and reduce potential transmission.” Surveillance measures have increased in parts of North Yorkshire.
Pathogen carries the risk of dangerous mutations
Swine flu is a common viral respiratory disease in pigs. People can also become infected, but the course is usually harmless. However, if it is transmitted to humans, there is a risk that the virus will develop into a more dangerous pathogen that can be transmitted from person to person.
In 2009, a swine flu pathogen caused a pandemic. The virus has been confirmed in 214 countries and is believed to be responsible for approximately 18,500 deaths with confirmed infections. In contrast, one study assumes a maximum of 575,400 deaths.
Source: Krone
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