Avian Influenza (Human) in China (Update)

As of 15 Apr 2013, the National Health and Family Planning Commission have reported 63 laboratory confirmed cases of human infection with influenza A(H7N9) virus including 14 deaths.

The outbreak area is expanding with 2 cases reported in Henan province and one in the capital Beijing.

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).

• Further information on avian influenza.

Advice for Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare professionals should be on the alert for travellers returning from China with fever plus respiratory syptoms or any other severe illness or travellers who develop such illness within 7 days of return from China.

• Health Protection Scotland - Algorithm for the investigation and management of possible human cases of avian influenza A/H7N9, in returning travellers. This has been adapted from the Public Health England algorithm and relates specifically to Scotland.
• Public Health England - Avian Influenza Guidance and Algorithms.

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.

• WHO weekly report.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) also publishes a daily Epidemiological Update on avian influenza A(H7N9) virus in China.

• ECDC daily Epidemiological Update.