Indiana reports four human cases of H3N2v influenza, advises public to protect themselves at fairs this summer
Indiana health officials are encouraging residents to take steps to protect themselves at county and 4H fairs around the state this summer following detection of four cases of variant influenza A (H3N2v).
Photo/Agricultural Research Service
The four people visited the Grant County Agricultural Fair, June 16-22, prior to illness, and at least two had contact with swine.
“Fairs are a great way to get outdoors, have some fun and learn about agriculture,” said State Health Commissioner William VanNess, M.D. “If you plan to attend a fair this summer, just be sure to wash your hands frequently and avoid taking food into areas where animals are kept.”
State and county health departments are investigating these cases. In 2012, Indiana reported a total of 138 cases of variant influenza A H3N2v.
Human infections with H3N2v are rare but have most commonly occurred after close proximity to live infected pigs, such as working with them in barns and livestock exhibits at fairs. Influenza viruses are not transmitted by eating pork and pork products.
Symptoms of variant influenza A include: fever, cough, sore throat, chills, headache and muscle aches. Diarrhea and nausea may occur in children. Symptoms can begin approximately one to four days after being exposed to the illness and last from two to seven days.
Nationwide last year, 309 cases of H3N2v infection across 12 states were detected, resulting in one fatality. These infections were mostly associated with prolonged exposure to pigs at agricultural fairs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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