Virology & Mycology
Open Access

Abstract

Novel Avian Flu A (H7N9): Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects, and Management

Attapon Cheepsattayakorn and Ruangrong Cheepsattayakorn

Avian influenza A (H7N9) virus, the latest avian influenza virus strain was once considered a relatively rare cause of infection and low pathogenic. This novel virus spreading among three cases was firstly reported on 31 March 2013 in eastern China. By 31 March 2013, the number of laboratory-confirmed influenza H7N9 virus infections reached 132, with 37 deaths. There are age and gender differences between H7N9 virus-infected and H5N1 virus-infected patients. Currently, the reservoir or source of this novel virus is unknown but is most likely to be live-bird markets in eastern China. Low pathogenicity in poultry and birds and no evidence of human-to-human transmission have been noted. The incubation period of this novel virus ranges 3 to 8 days, thus the most appropriate time for contacts observation and treatment is 10 full days. The best diagnostic method for confirmation of H7N9 virus infections is real-time reversetranscriptase polymerase chain reaction. Lymphopenia and thrombocytopenia can be predictors of acute respiratory distress syndrome and death. Approximately, 20% of cases without appropriate treatment with antivirals are dead with respiratory failure and multiple organ failure. Fortunately, Oseltamivir and Zanamivir are still susceptible to this novel virus. Currently, no specific vaccines against H7N9 viruses are available. China scenario and its model against spreading of this virus can be an effective model for other countries for protection of this virus spreading.