Avian Flu Cases in China

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As of June 3, 2013, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports 132 cases of Avian flu virus (H7N9), 37 of which have resulted in death.

Many of the human cases of H7N9 virus have had direct contact with poultry. However, some cases have not had such contact. Investigators are monitoring possible limited transmission within households where there is a confirmed case. So far, however, there is no evidence of ongoing, human to human transmission.

There are no reported cases of H7N9 in the United States. However, as a standard pandemic preparedness precaution, the CDC received the first H7N9 virus isolate from China on Thursday, April 11th, which will allow them to begin developing a vaccine.

There are currently NO travel restrictions. Public Health officials are closely monitoring the situation in the United States, and people are being advised to go about their daily lives.

If you are traveling to China, here are some precautions you can take to protect yourself:

Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.

Try to avoid close contact, such as kissing, hugging or sharing eating utensils or cups, with people who are sick.

See a doctor if you become sick during or after travel to China.

See a doctor right away if you become sick with fever, coughing, or shortness of breath.

If you get sick while you are still in China, visit the US Department of State website to find a list of local doctors and hospitals. Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).

Delay your travel home until after you have recovered or your doctor says it is ok to travel.

If you get sick with fever, coughing, or shortness of breath after you return to the United States, be sure to tell your doctor about your recent travel to China. (2)