Woman dies of flu co-infection in China: Know what this means

Chinese authorities announced the death of a 63 year old woman due to a coinfection of two different types of flu. The woman from the Anhui province was infected with H3N2 seasonal flu and a H10N5 flu virus that is genetically related to avian subtypes. " According to the official website of the National Administration of Disease Control and Prevention, the National Administration of Disease Control and Prevention reported that a case of H3N2 and H10N5 mixed infection was discovered in Zhejiang Province," FluTrackers an infectious disease news message board has translated the message posted by the China authorities.

As per the report, the symptoms the woman had included cough, fever, and sore throat. Her symptoms began on November 30. She was hospitalised a few days later as her health condition worsened. A week later, on December 7 she was transferred to a hospital in Zhejiang province. She died on December 16.

H3N2, a subtype of the influenza A virus, is known for its potential to cause severe flu seasons. Characterized by frequent mutations, H3N2 can quickly evolve, posing challenges for vaccine effectiveness. It is associated with more severe symptoms, higher hospitalization rates, and increased mortality, particularly impacting the elderly and young children. The virus exhibits a propensity for antigenic drift, leading to variations that evade immunity from previous exposures or vaccinations. Its rapid transmission in crowded settings contributes to widespread outbreaks. Vigilance and timely vaccination campaigns are crucial in mitigating the impact of H3N2, as it continues to pose a significant public health threat.

H10 viruses are primarily found in wild birds, and there have been cases of H10N5 infection reported in humans. However, the overall prevalence and impact on human health have been relatively low compared to other influenza subtypes. Continuous monitoring of avian influenza strains, including H10N5, is essential to assess any potential threats to public health. For the latest and most accurate information on H10N5 or any other influenza strains, it is recommended to refer to recent updates from health authorities and research institutions.

Experts assessed that the complete genetic analysis of the virus showed that the H10N5 virus was of poultry origin and did not have the ability to effectively infect humans. The epidemic was an occasional cross-species transmission from poultry to humans. The risk of the virus infecting humans is low and no human-to-human transmission has occurred.

Experts suggest that the public should avoid contact with sick and dead poultry in daily life and try to avoid direct contact with live poultry; pay attention to dietary hygiene and improve self-protection awareness. If you have fever and respiratory symptoms, you should wear a mask and seek medical treatment as soon as possible.

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