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Avian Influenza (H7N9) (Human) in China (Update)

08 Apr 2013

New human cases of avian influenza virus infection (H7N9) continue to be reported in eastern provinces of China. On 6 April 2013, a further two confirmed cases were reported from Shanghai; two males aged 74 and 66-years-of-age who are receiving treatment in hospital.

A total of 18 cases including 6 deaths from avian influenza (H7N9) have been identified in China thus far. Affected provinces include: Shanghai (8 cases, 4 deaths), Anhui (one case), Jiangsu (6 cases), Zhejiang (3 cases, 2 deaths).

Health officials believe that the virus (H7N9) is being transmitted through direct contact with infected poultry and there is no evidence of human to human transmission. The agriculture ministry for Shangai has stopped live poultry trade and ordered the slaughter of all poultry in markets where the virus has been identified.

Advice for Travellers

Avian influenza virus (H7N9) infection is unusual in humans but appears to cause severe illness in those infected. Preventive measures are the same as those for highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N1).