MDH Week 15 Influenza Activity Update
Seasonal Influenza Influenza Activity
Seasonal influenza continues to wind down. The most common strain of influenza characterized at the MDH PHL so far this season is influenza A / (H1), however, influenza B / Malaysia-like has been the dominant strain of the past few weeks. Influenza B / Malaysia-like is of a different lineage than the influenza B component of the 2008-2009 season vaccine.
Swine Influenza
Eight human cases of a novel strain of swine influenza have been identified in California and Texas, and several more have been identified in Mexico. The CDC is working closely with the World Health Organization, state health departments, and animal health in this investigation. The CDC will post updates, including case counts.
Clinicians in Minnesota who see patients who have influenza-like illness and have travelled recently to or had contact with ill persons from San Diego or Imperial Counties in California, San Antonio County in Texas, or Mexico should consider influenza in the differential diagnosis and obtain a respiratory specimen for testing. Please call MDH at 651-201-5414 or 1-877-676-5414 for consultation and specimen information. Minnesota-specific information will be posted as it becomes available.
Remember, it's appropriate to vaccinate for influenza throughout the entire season, October to May.
Also remember that good hand washing and hygiene practices, such as covering your cough, can prevent influenza and other respiratory illnesses that are prevalent this time of year.
