A single case of the H3N2 flu variant has been detected in southern Manitoba, according to a Monday media release from Manitoba Public Health.
The release said that the virus is related to influenza viruses found in pigs.
After experiencing mild symptoms in early June, an individual was tested for COVID-19. They tested negative for the coronavirus, but a routine surveillance process later identified it as a case of H3N2.
Officials believe the case was isolated and separate from previously announced influenza variant cases announced in April.
At this point, it is believed the public is not at increased risk because there is no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission, though investigations are ongoing.
The virus is not a food-related illness and there is no risk or danger to the food supply chain.
Anyone working with pigs or poultry with flu-like symptoms and going for COVID-19 testing are asked to identify themselves as an agricultural worker to staff at testing sites.
Though it is rare for influenza to spread from pigs to people and vice-versa, people in contact with pigs can reduce the spread of flu viruses by not taking food, drinks or other items into the pig areas, not putting anything in your mouth in pig areas, avoiding close contact with pigs known or suspected of being sick, wearing personal protective equipment when handling pigs, washing hands before and after contact with pigs, avoiding pigs if you have flu symptoms and avoiding pigs and pig barns if you have a high risk of complications from influenza.
» The Brandon Sun
Pig flu variant case found in Manitoba - Brandon Sun
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