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Novel avian influenza virus infects 7 humans in China
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An avian influenza virus, A(H7N9), has infected seven people in China, according to the World Health Organization.
Three confirmed cases from Shanghai and Anhui provinces were reported earlier. Two of the patients died and one is in critical condition. All three cases presented with respiratory tract infection and progressed to severe pneumonia and breathing difficulties. Four additional cases from the Jiangsu province have been confirmed. All of these patients are in critical condition.
None of the cases appear to be related. Eighty-eight contacts of the first three confirmed cases and 160 contacts of the second four cases are being monitored for the disease, and none have developed any symptoms.
There is no vaccine available for this influenza subtype, and there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission. The Chinese government is investigating and emphasized stronger infection prevention and control in health care settings. The government has advised stronger communication between animal health and human health sectors.