A team of Canadian scientists published an article claiming that a rare strain of swine flu, H1N2, had been identified.
A case of infection with this strain was reported in western Alberta in mid-October. To date, this is an isolated case, so experts cannot say how common this strain is.
As a reminder, swine flu is an acute infectious respiratory disease of pigs caused by one of several swine influenza A viruses. Outbreaks of the disease occur year-round, but in autumn and winter there is a surge in incidence.
Most common swine flu viruses belong to the H1N1 subtype, but other subtypes (such as H1N2, H3N1 and H3N2) circulate among pigs. H1N2 was recorded some time ago in Alberta (Canada).
This is the only case of swine flu reported in Alberta this season. The patient experienced mild flu symptoms, was prescribed standard treatment, and recovered quickly. There is currently no evidence that the virus has spread further. — write Canadian researchers.
Canadian health professionals are now investigating where the H1N2 strain came from and checking to see if it has spread. Since 2005, there have been only 27 cases of human infection with the H1N2 virus worldwide.
Prior to that, there were no cases of the disease in Canada. It is known that the H1N2 strain is not transmitted to humans through contaminated food. Scientists are confident that this rare type of flu, a person becomes ill after contact with an infected animal.
–
– .
