The Kenosha County Division of Health is reporting that 2 cases of variant influenza A (H3N2v) viruses have been identified in Kenosha County.
Since July 2012, 276 cases of H3N2v were reported and confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) among 10 different states.
The Kenosha County Division of Health is recommending the following precautions:
- Persons who are at high risk for influenza complications (e.g., underlying chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or neurological conditions, or who are pregnant or younger than 5 years, older than 65 years of age or have weakened immune systems) should consider avoiding exposure to pigs and swine barns this summer, especially if ill pigs have been identified.
- Persons engaging in activities that may involve swine contact, such as attending agricultural events or exhibiting swine, should wash their hands frequently with soap and running water before and after exposure to animals; avoid eating or drinking in animal areas; and avoid close contact with animals that look or act ill. •
- Patients who experience influenza-like symptoms following direct or close contact with pigs and who seek medical care should inform their health care provider about the exposure.
- Patients with influenza-like illness who are at high risk for influenza complications (e.g., underlying chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or neurological conditions, or who are pregnant or younger than 5 years, older than 65 years of age or have weakened immune systems) should see their health care provider promptly to determine if treatment with antiviral medications is warranted.
- Influenza viruses have not been shown to be transmissible to people through eating properly handled and prepared pork or other products derived from pigs.
For more information about the proper handling and preparation of pork, visit the USDA website fact sheet “Fresh Pork from Farm to Table.â€
For more information, please call the Kenosha County Division of Health at (262) 605- 6700, (800) 472-8008, or visit http://www.co.kenosha.wi.us/dhs/Divisions/Health/