CDC Reports Cases of H3N2v Infection
August 1st 2012The state of Indiana has reported the first novel influenza virus outbreak associated with a fair this season. Following reports of ill swine and humans during a fair in Indiana from July 8-14, 2012, samples were taken from swine and humans. Twelve swine were randomly sampled by Indiana state animal health officials, tested at Indiana and federal animal diagnostic laboratories, and found to be infected with swine influenza A (H3N2) viruses. Four people tested positive for influenza A (H3N2) variant virus. Genetic testing confirmed that the viruses found in humans and those found in swine are nearly identical, and both have the M gene from the pandemic H1N1 virus. These cases bring the total number of detected infections with the H3N2v virus containing the pandemic M gene in the United States since 2011 to 17.
World Hepatitis Day 2012 is July 28
July 27th 2012World Hepatitis Day 2012 takes place on July 28, 2012 and this year's theme is Its closer than you think." The campaign focuses on raising awareness of the different forms of hepatitis: what they are and how they are transmitted; who is at risk; and the various methods of prevention and treatment. Despite its staggering toll on health, hepatitis remains a group of diseases that are largely unknown, undiagnosed and untreated, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).