Pennsylvania reports 2 additional novel influenza A virus cases, Both patients attended livestock auction
2nd and 3rd 'swine flu' cases reported in 2024
Pennsylvania state health officials have reported two additional human infections with a novel influenza A virus.
The patients, who are close contacts, were both infected with influenza A(H1N2) variant (A(H1N2)v) viruses. Both patients are ≥18 years of age and sought healthcare during the week ending June 22, 2024.
One of the patients was hospitalized, and one was not.
An investigation by state public health officials found that the patients had attended a livestock auction where swine were present prior to their illness onset. Investigation did not identify illness among additional close contacts of either patient.
This is the second and third human cases reported this year in Pennsylvania and the US. The first case was reported in late March.
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When an influenza virus that normally circulates in swine (but not people) is detected in a person, it is called a “variant” influenza virus. Most human infections with variant influenza viruses occur following exposure to swine, but human-to-human transmission can occur. It is important to note that in most cases, variant influenza viruses have not shown the ability to spread easily and sustainably from person to person.
Early identification and investigation of human infections with novel influenza A viruses are critical so that the risk of infection can be understood, and appropriate public health measures can be taken.
The risk of infection and spread of animal influenza A viruses to people can be reduced by taking simple actions. CDC recommends fair organizers consider the following actions:
Actions to consider when planning for fairs:
Have available appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for staff and exhibitors to follow the CDC Updated Interim PPE Recommendations to Reduce Exposure to Novel Influenza A Viruses Associated with Disease in Humans in the event sick animals are identified during the fair
This includes protective clothing, gloves, goggles, and a respirator or well-fitting mask that covers the mouth and nose.
Control visitor traffic to prevent overcrowding. Create opportunities for one-directional traffic flow and limit public access to animals and animal bedding outside of designated areas when possible.
Locate food service, concession stands, and dining/picnic tables away from animal areas.
Place physical barriers between the public and animal displays to limit close contact with poultry, pigs, cattle, and other animals. Use alternatives to live-animal, hands-on exhibits that do not involve close contact with poultry, pigs, and cattle (i.e., milk a pretend cow exhibit).
Provide adequate ventilation for both animals and humans. For enclosed or partially enclosed barns, increase the amount of clean outdoor air and direct clean air so that it flows over visitors and workers before animals and minimizes disturbing dust.