A new strain of avian influenza has surfaced in China. The new strain has infected a 73 year old woman, who has since died. She was in weak health before infection, and succumbed to the novel influenza.
She is believed to be the first person to have been infected with the new strain. The diagnosis revealed that it is a H10N8 strain, one which usually does not cross the zoonotic barrier.
Since its potential for infection is yet unknown, authorities are closely monitoring the development of the influenza season.
In most cases, these strain that escape the animal realm do not cause epidemics and peter out. China health authorities hope that this will remain an isolated case.
Just like other influenza strains, this one was spread through wet markets, or live poultry markets.
The Chinese health authorities are much more concerned however, abut the H7N9 strain spread. The first case of human to human infection with this particular strain was recorded in the Spring. There is no evidence yet or further human to human contagion in this winter season from H7N9.
Source : VOA news/ 12.20.13
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