Avian Influenza (H7N9) (Human) in China (Update)
12 Apr 2013
As of 11 Apr 2013, the National Health and Family Planning Commission notified WHO of an additional 10 laboratory confirmed cases of human infection with influenza A(H7N9) virus.
The cases include: 5 in Shanghai (3 females, 2 males), 4 in Jiangsu (4 males) and one male in Zhejiang.
To date, a total of 38 patients have been laboratory confirmed with influenza A(H7N9) virus in China; including 10 deaths, 19 severe cases and 9 mild cases.
More than 760 close contacts of the confirmed cases are being closely monitored. At this time there is no evidence of ongoing human-to-human transmission.
WHO does not advise special screening at points of entry with regard to this event, nor does it recommend that any travel or trade restrictions be applied.
Advice for Travellers
Avian influenza virus (H7N9) infection is unusual in humans but appears to cause severe illness in those infected. Preventive measures are the same as those for highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N1).
WHO is producing a weekly report on the number of reported confirmed human cases for influenza A(H7N9), giving the geographical location and cumulative number of cases reported per month.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) also publishes a daily Epidemiological Update on avian influenza A(H7N9) virus in China.