Influenza A/H1N1 Information

29 April 2009

Boxmeer, April 28-2009 - Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health is carefully following the situation regarding the human cases of the Influenza A/H1N1 serotype as well as influenza cases in pigs.

We are working with the competent authorities to see if we can be of support in minimizing the risk of spreading of the virus. Up to now we have no information on an increased swine influenza incidence in pigs.

Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health has registered inactivated vaccines combining two strains (H3N2 and H1N1) for pigs. We have no information yet whether these vaccines would cross-protect pigs against the new re-assorted strain causing the human cases. The vaccines are for use in pigs only. Other companies have similar vaccines as well.

As a general precaution we have increased biosecurity measures at the relevant production and R&D sites.  For employees, we are providing general information on this issue and will be providing updates and business practice guidelines as appropriate.

Swine influenza is a respiratory disease in pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Morbidity in pigs tends to be high and mortality low (1-4%). Swine influenza viruses are most commonly of the H1N1 or H3N2 subtype, but other subtypes are also circulating in pigs (e.g., H1N2, H3N1). 

The influenza virus can be spread among pigs by aerosols, direct and indirect contact, and asymptomatic carrier pigs. Outbreaks in pigs occur year round, with an increased incidence in the fall and winter in temperate zones. Many countries routinely vaccinate swine populations against swine influenza.
OIE (World Organization for Animal Health) said on April 27 that  urgent scientific research must be started in order to know the susceptibility of animals to this new virus, and if it will be relevant to implement biosecurity measures including possible vaccination to protect susceptible animals.

Swine influenza cannot be passed to humans through food, by eating properly cooked pork or pork products.