By NewsDesk  @infectiousdiseasenews

Health authorities in Manitoba have reported a single case of H3N2 variant influenza (flu) (H3N2v) in the southern part of the province.

Image/Mutinka

The virus is related to influenza viruses that circulate in pigs. Influenza viruses from pigs do not normally infect humans. However, sporadic human infections with influenza viruses that normally circulate in pigs have occurred.

The case was detected in early June after an individual sought testing after developing an influenza-like illness. The individual experienced mild symptoms, was tested and then recovered. The tests came back negative for COVID-19, but was later identified as a case of human influenza A(H3N2)v through routine influenza surveillance processes.

The case appears to be isolated and is the result of a different influenza virus than previously announced variant influenza cases in late April. The investigations are ongoing to determine how transmission may have occurred. Based on available evidence, the current assessment is that there is no increased risk to people, with no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission at this time.

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While these investigations are ongoing, the current assessment is that there is no increased risk to Manitobans, Canadians or the food supply chain at this time. The viruses are not a food-related illness. They are not transmissible to people through pork meat or other products that come from pigs and there is no risk associated with eating pork.

Sporadic human cases of variant influenza have been reported over the past decade in North America. One case of human influenza A(H1N2)v and one case of human influenza A(H1N1)v were reported in Manitoba in late April 2021. These viruses are rarely seen in humans.

While rare, influenza can spread from pigs to people and from people to pigs. It is important for people who have contact with pigs to take measures to reduce the spread of influenza viruses between pigs and people.
• Do not take food, drink or other items into pig areas and do not put anything in your mouth in pig areas.
• Avoid close contact with pigs that look or act ill or are known or suspected to be sick. This includes minimizing contact with pigs and wearing personal protective equipment like protective clothing, gloves and masks that cover your mouth and nose when contact is required. Call a veterinarian if you suspect illness in pigs.
• Wash your hands often with soap and running water before and after exposure to pigs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid contact with pigs if you have flu symptoms.
• Anyone who is at high risk of complications from influenza should avoid pigs and pig barns. If you develop flu symptoms, call a health-care provider and tell them about your exposure to pigs. The same influenza antiviral drugs used to treat seasonal flu can be used to treat variant influenza virus infections.