Update on A (H1N1) Influenza (Swine Influenza) - May 7, 2009

In the U.S., as of 11 AM today, we are up to 896 confirmed cases of A (H1N1) influenza, with 2 deaths. The most interesting news items today on the A (H1N1) influenza front were the discussions about the prospects for a new flu vaccine specifically directed against this strain.

Because swine flu appears to be spreading rapidly, the question is whether or not a vaccine will help. If it is developed rapidly and can be administered soon enough to proceed a huge surge in any cases that would follow, then it would be beneficial. Seed stock of the virus is being created, and developing the vaccine does not appear to be a technical obstacle.

Another question is whether production of a vaccine against the H1N1 strain of the virus would divert vaccine manufacturers from producing the "normal" run of vaccine to thwart anticipated strains of influenza virus that might appear during the upcoming late autumn and winter flu season. Recall that the estimate of number of persons who die from influenza during a typical flu season is 36,000. Would we be robbing Peter to pay Paul? It is possible that for the upcoming flu season, persons will need to be injected with a vaccine against seasonal flu, and one or two vaccines against the current H1N1 strain.

From the World Health Organization:

Twenty-four countries have officially reported 2371 cases of influenza A (H1N1) infection. Mexico has reported 1112 laboratory confirmed human cases of infection, including 42 deaths.

The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with no deaths - Austria (1), Canada (201), China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (1), Colombia (1), Costa Rica (1), Denmark (1), El Salvador (2), France (5), Germany (10), Guatemala (1), Ireland (1), Israel (6), Italy (5), Netherlands (2), New Zealand (5), Poland (1), Portugal (1), Republic of Korea (3), Spain (81), Sweden (1), Switzerland (1) and the United Kingdom (32).

WHO is not recommending travel restrictions related to the outbreak of the influenza A(H1N1) virus.

Individuals who are ill should delay travel plans and returning travelers who fall ill should seek appropriate medical care. These recommendations are prudent measures which can limit the spread of many communicable diseases, including influenza.

Tags: A(H1N1) influenza, S-OIV, influenza, swine flu, flu, swine influenza, wilderness medicine, outdoor medicine, healthline