Just when everybody is on the lookout for Avian flu (H5N1), the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) went into the weekend reporting a human case of swine flu influenza A H3N2 variant (H3N2v).

The identification of a resident of Ingham County was made with the Ingham County Health Department. 

“Influenza A H3N2v is different from highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N1) that has recently impacted dairy and poultry farms. Influenza A H3N2v is often associated with pigs or swine, though the source of this person’s exposure is still under investigation,” MDHHS reported.

The two health agonies said the individual tested positive for influenza A H3N2v in late July. The specimen was forwarded to the MDHHS Bureau of Laboratories for enhanced influenza virus sequence monitoring as part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Emerging Infections Program, where it again tested presumptive positive for influenza A H3N2, which was later confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“While we believe this is an isolated case, Michigan residents should monitor for flu-like symptoms: fever, respiratory symptoms like cough and runny nose and body aches,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, the state’s chief medical executive. “If you have these symptoms, we recommend taking a test for influenza and COVID-19. 

Home COVID-19 tests are widely available, and both flu and COVID-19 tests are available at many pharmacies, urgent cares, and clinics. Regardless of test results, those who are ill should stay at home until they recover. 

.“As our partners continue to investigate this case, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is ready to assist if any connections are made to an ill animal,” said Tim Boring, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development director. “As part of our state’s One Health approach, our agencies are committed to collaborative action protecting both animal and public health.”

Emergency department visits for influenza in Michigan are currently low, and MDHHS anticipates that risks of influenza A H3N2v to the general public are low. 

While the infection was not linked to known exposure to swine or other animals, MDHHS reiterates precautions the public can take to avoid potential exposure at farms, fairs and exhibits:

• Refrain from eating or drinking in livestock barns or show rings.

• Do not take toys, pacifiers, cups, baby bottles, strollers or similar items into pig areas.

• Anyone at high risk of severe flu complications and planning to attend a fair should avoid pigs and swine barns.

• Wash hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.

While most individuals recover from influenza, including illnesses from variant viruses like H3N2v, these infections can sometimes cause severe disease, even in healthy people. If someone experiences respiratory symptoms, they should share any recent exposure to livestock with their doctor so that influenza testing can be considered. The same antiviral drugs used to treat seasonal flu can be used to treat H3N2v in children and adults. These treatments are most effective when taken early in the illness.

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