"Have You Heard?" CDC Confirms 5th Case of New Swine-Origin H3N2
Reassortant in Maine October 21, 2011 – – CDC has confirmed the
fifth case of human infection with a swine–origin influenza A
(H3N2) virus that carries the M gene from the 2009 H1N1 virus.
This virus was first detected in a child in Indiana in July.
Subsequently three additional cases of human infection with
swine–origin influenza A (H3N2) viruses carrying the same
genetic change were detected in Pennsylvania. Though rare, human
infections with swine–origin influenza viruses can occur,
usually after close contact with infected swine. The patient in
Maine was reported to have attended an agricultural fair where
animals, including pigs, were present. The child was not
hospitalized. He received antiviral treatment and is recovering
from his illness. Though an investigation is ongoing and
surveillance for influenza–like–illness is being enhanced, no
human–to–human transmission of this virus has been identified in
Maine. The patient had not received