A few weeks ago, reports of H3N2 came out in several states. It is not an expected variety, and it contains aspects of human, swine, bird and even H1N1 components. The first cases seemed to have an animal vector, the children involved had either been around pigs or someone who worked with pigs. While it wasn’t assumed at the time, there was some speculation that it could only be passed through an animal vector.
That has now changed. More cases have been reported. A child came down with it, and passed it on to two more children. This shows a clear change from an animal vector. It can be passed from human to human.
While the children were reported, other family members also became ill after exposure to the children. They were not tested, so they aren’t officially on the list of patients. This is probably true of many of the outbreaks.
All of the patients have since recovered. The symptoms are similar to that of the “regular” flu. It is being carefully monitored by the CDC. The states that have already reported cases are encouraged to check all potential flu victims to see what type of flu it is. This will help check for a spread, and it will help find further mutations when they appear.
You may be wondering how dangerous this new virus is. The answer appears to be, “we don’t know yet.” Insofar as reports go, it is not as dangerous as H1N1, but that could change. The change may be due to a lack of testing or it may be due to a change in the virus itself. It is important that you follow the news on this to make sure you aren’t taken unaware.
In the meantime, you should do all you can to avoid any type of flu. The flu shot will help, but probably not against the new virus. Hand washing and not touching your face with your hands are the top two safety measures. Wiping down shopping carts and other possibly contaminated surfaces are also important.
As the new flu progresses, we will learn more about it. Hopefully it will not result in the pandemic H1N1 became, and hopefully it won’t be as dangerous. Watch for more news as it comes out so you and your family can stay safe.