Influenza A(H7N9) is one of a subgroup of influenza viruses that normally circulate among birds. Until recently, this virus had not been seen in people. However, human infections have now been detected. On 31 March 2013, the China Health and Family Planning Commission notified the World Health Organization of three cases of human infection with influenza A(H7N9). These recent reports from China are the first cases of human infection with H7N9 viruses. As of 12 April 2013, total 43 patients have been laboratory confirmed with influenza A(H7N9) virus in China, including 11 deaths. More than a thousand close contacts of the confirmed cases are being closely monitored. The Chinese government is actively investigating this event and has heightened disease surveillance. Retrospective testing of recently reported cases with severe respiratory infection may uncover additional cases that were previously unrecognized.
WHO is in contact with national authorities and is following the event closely. At this time there is no evidence of ongoing human-to-human transmission.
Source: World Health Organization
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