Although H7N9 avian influenza activity decreased significantly during the hot summer months, the arrival of autumn makes a resurgence of the virus possible. Experts warn that infections could occur again and urge early vigilance. The Nikkei Asian Review published an article offering prevention advice for H7N9 avian influenza.
Autumn Flu Season: Vigilance Against H7N9 Resurgence
According to Nikkei, Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has decided to develop a preventive vaccine against H7N9. While experts do not believe the H7N9 virus will rapidly evolve into a new strain transmissible between humans, the ministry is proceeding with vaccine development as a precaution.Discussions are underway to target two viral strains for the vaccine, with plans to produce experimental doses. However, necessary clinical trials and animal testing must be completed before vaccination can begin.
The H7N9 avian influenza outbreak in mainland China this March has resulted in human infections, with cases increasing and the affected area expanding. Confirmed cases have even been reported in Taiwan.While avian influenza typically infects birds and poultry with limited transmission to humans, this novel human-infecting strain has drawn global concern.
As viruses evolve, predictions suggested this strain could develop into a new human-to-human transmissible virus. Although the H7N9 virus has not yet undergone such predicted changes, the expanding human infection area makes such mutation highly possible, warranting vigilance.Unlike seasonal influenza that occurs annually in winter, the novel H7N9 influenza lacks antibodies in uninfected individuals, making rapid progression to severe illness highly probable. According to World Health Organization statistics, as of the latest data, 135 patients have been infected with H7N9, resulting in 44 deaths. However, only two infections have been reported since June-July.
Although H7N9 avian influenza has been temporarily contained, experts unanimously agree that vigilance must remain high during spring outbreaks and into autumn. Influenza viruses typically become dormant during summer, making a resurgence highly probable upon autumn's arrival. To prevent H7N9's return, case monitoring in September and October is critically important.
Preventing H7N9 Avian Influenza in Autumn: Minimize Contact with Poultry and Maintain Personal Hygiene
To date, confirmed H7N9 cases have predominantly been severe, with a mortality rate reaching 30%. Patients are primarily elderly, with women accounting for 30% of cases, though males constitute the majority. Symptoms mainly include fever and cough, with pneumonia common in severe cases.Animal studies indicate that while influenza viruses typically enter the human upper respiratory tract (nose, throat) via droplets from sneezes and multiply using body temperature, the virus DNA has now mutated, enhancing its adaptability to mammals. The National Institute of Infectious Diseases in Japan warns that if the virus continues to mutate, "it could potentially trigger a global pandemic."