UKHSA detects human case of variant influenza A(H1N2)v
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has detected a single confirmed human case of variant influenza A(H1N2)v. This is the first detection of this flu strain in a human in the UK. Influenza A(H1N2)v is similar to flu viruses currently circulating in pigs in the UK.
The case was detected as part of routine national flu surveillance undertaken by UKHSA and the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP). The individual experienced a mild illness and has fully recovered. The source of their infection remains under investigation. Close contacts of the case are being followed up by UKHSA and partner organisations.
There has been a total of 50 human cases of influenza A(H1N2)v reported globally since 2005. No cases of variant influenza A (H1N2)v have been notified in Ireland to date. Based on early information, the infection detected in the UK is a distinct clade (1b.1.1), which is different from recent human cases of influenza A(H1N2) elsewhere in the world but is similar to viruses in UK swine.
People who have close, regular contact with pigs, poultry or waterfowl are encouraged to maintain awareness of influenza symptoms. Anyone with symptoms consistent with flu should stay at home and avoid contact with people at risk of more severe infection. They should contact their GP if their symptoms worsen or if they are in an at-risk group for severe flu. People with respiratory symptoms should also maintain good respiratory etiquette by covering coughs and sneezes, and maintain good hand hygiene.
Vaccination remains the best protection against seasonal influenza and is recommended for people who have close contact with pigs, poultry and water fowl, as per National Immunisation Guidelines. Influenza vaccines are available from GP surgeries and pharmacies.
For further information on influenza, visit: https://www.hpsc.ie/a-z/respiratory/influenza/seasonalinfluenza/factsheets/