[ad_1]
A human case of a rare strain of influenza usually found in pigs has been identified in Manitoba for the third time this year, although the cases do not appear to be linked.
Provincial health officials say a single case of the H3N2 influenza variant (H3N2v) was found in southern Manitoba in early June, according to a press release sent Monday.
The individual had requested a test for COVID-19 after starting to show flu-like symptoms. This test came back negative for the coronavirus, but routine influenza surveillance processes found that the individual had the strain of the flu.
The person had only mild symptoms and has since recovered, according to the press release.
The case is isolated and is unrelated to the two other human cases of rare swine flu variants that were announced in April, health officials said.
The province is required to report these cases to the Public Health Agency of Canada and publicly announce them under international health regulations.
Public health officials are still investigating how transmission occurred in the June case, but do not believe it poses an increased risk to Manitobans or the province’s food supply.
Although rare, human cases of influenza viruses that normally circulate in pigs do occur from time to time, according to the press release. These viruses are not spread through the consumption of pork or other products made from pigs.
Detection of these cases in April and again in June could be the result of increased respiratory disease surveillance that is being carried out due to COVID-19, the province said, although this may also reflect the fact that more these cases occur.
[ad_2]
Pictures Credit