Novel Swine-origin Influenza Virus A (H1N1): The First Pandemic of the 21st Century
Journal
Journal of the Formosan Medical Association
Journal Volume
108
Journal Issue
7
Pages
526-532
Date Issued
2009
Author(s)
Abstract
An influenza epidemic was detected in April 2009 at the border between the United States and Mexico. The virus was identified soon after to be a swine-origin influenza virus A (S-OIV A) (H1N1). This virus has an HA gene that is derived from the 1918 swine influenza virus and other genes from human, avian, and Eurasian swine influenza viruses. Clinically, it behaves similarly to seasonal influenza. The only differentiating characteristics are vomiting and diarrhea in a quarter of infected patients, which are rare in seasonal influenza. On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization declared the first pandemic of the 21st century, caused by S-OIV A (H1N1). Vaccination is the only way to dampen this pandemic. Many questions await answers, including the clinical impact of the pandemic, optimal doses of vaccine, and the future destiny of the virus. A breakthrough in vaccinology against influenza is needed to address the recurring influenza pandemic. ? 2009 Formosan Medical Association & Elsevier.
SDGs
Other Subjects
diarrhea; disease transmission; HA gene; human; infection control; influenza; Influenza virus A H1N1; Mexico; nonhuman; pandemic; review; swine; swine influenza; United States; vaccination; virus gene; virus identification; vomiting; world health organization; Animals; Cross Protection; Disease Outbreaks; Humans; Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype; Influenza Vaccines; Influenza, Human; Risk Factors; RNA Replicase; Swine; Vaccination; Viral Proteins
Type
review