Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 28th November 2023
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Human swine flu case discovered in UK
Pig keepers are urged to report any suspicion of swine flu to their vet immediately.
UKHSA is stepping up surveillance measures.

Health officials have confirmed the first human case of influenza A(H1N2)v in the UK, a strain similar to the flu viruses currently circulating in pigs.

The case was detected as part of routine flu surveillance by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Royal College of General Practitioners after an unnamed individual in North Yorkshire visited their GP earlier this month with respiratory symptoms.

The individual has since recovered after what has been described as a ‘mild illness’. It is not yet known how they caught the virus.

UKHSA said that it is working closely with partners to determine the characteristics of the virus and assess the risk to human health. It is also increasing flu surveillance in the local area.

Meera Chand, incident director at UKHSA, said: “We are working rapidly to trace close contacts and reduce any potential spread.

“In accordance with established protocols, investigations are underway to learn how the individual acquired the infection and to assess whether there are any further associated cases.”

Since 2005, there have been 50 recorded cases of influenza A(H1N2)v globally. This is the first case in the UK.

Early information indicates that the individual was infected with a clade (1b.1.1) that is similar to the viruses circulating in UK pigs but different from other recent cases of influenza A(H1N2) in humans.

Chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss said: “We know that some diseases of animals can be transferred to humans – which is why high standards of animal health, welfare and biosecurity are so important.

“Through our animal and human surveillance systems we work together to protect everyone. In this case we are providing specialist veterinary and scientific knowledge to support the UKHSA investigation.

“Pig keepers must also report any suspicion of swine flu in their herds to their local vet immediately.”

Image © Shutterstock

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Vetlife nominated for campaign award

News Story 1
 Vetlife has been shortlisted for the Association of Charity Organisations (ACO) Campaign of the Year Award 2024.

The nomination recognises its campaigning to raise awareness of neurodiversity within the profession and produce resources for individuals and workplaces. Vetlife's campaign has included talks, lived experience blogs, and an awareness video.

Kirstie Pickles, Vetlife trustee and project lead, said: "I am thrilled and delighted that the Vetlife neurodiversity awareness campaign has been shortlisted for the ACO Campaign of the Year Award 2024"

The winner will be announced 12 September 2024. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.