Detection of a new variant of swine flu in a person inside UK

The UK has reported the detection of a new strain of swine flu in a human, which is similar to the flu virus that is currently circulating in pigs.

This is the first time that this particular strain has been identified in humans.

The individual in question received a diagnosis of influenza A(H1N2)v during a routine national flu surveillance after seeking medical attention for respiratory issues at their GP's office in North Yorkshire. It is important to note that this person is not known to have had any contact with pigs and has fully recovered.

The origin of the infection remains unknown and is currently being investigated. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is closely monitoring the situation and taking measures to enhance surveillance within existing programs involving GP surgeries and hospitals.

Since 2005, there have been a total of 50 reported cases of influenza A(H1N2)v in humans worldwide. However, it is worth mentioning that none of these cases are genetically related to the strain found in this particular individual.

Swine flu A viruses in pigs, specifically the major subtypes H1N1, H1N2, and H3N2, can occasionally infect humans. The UKHSA has stated that based on preliminary information, the strain detected in the UK differs from recent human cases of H1N2 observed elsewhere in the world, but it does bear similarities to viruses found in pigs within the UK.

Meera Chand, the incident director at UKHSA, highlighted that the detection of this virus in humans in the UK is a novel occurrence. However, it bears a striking resemblance to viruses previously identified in pigs.

Chief veterinary officer, Christine Middlemiss, stated: "We know that some diseases of animals can be transferred to humans, which is why high standards of animal health, welfare and biosecurity are so important." 

She added, "Through our animal and human surveillance systems we work together to protect everyone." "In this case we are providing specialist veterinary and scientific knowledge to support the UKHSA investigation."

Pig farmers are strongly urged to immediately notify their local veterinarian if they suspect any indications of swine flu within their herds due to the potential risks it poses to both animal and human health. 

At this point, it remains uncertain how easily the strain can spread or if there are other instances of swine flu in the UK.

Furthermore, it is premature to determine if this particular strain has the potential to cause a pandemic.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has officially informed the World Health Organization (WHO) about the most recent case.

Back in 2009, there was a widespread human pandemic caused by the H1N1 flu strain, commonly known as swine flu.

Currently, this strain continues to circulate among humans on a seasonal basis.