Epidemiological investigation of the case of human infection with avian influenza A (H7N9) virus in Bayannur in Inner Mongolia

Objective To understand the epidemiological characteristics of the first human infection with avian influenza A (H7N9) virus in Bayannur, Inner Mongolia, and provide evidence for the prevention and control of human infection with H7N9 virus. Methods Using descriptive epidemiology method, epidemiological investigation was conducted in patient and close contacts. The throat swabs of close contacts, cage surface swabs, chicken feces samples and drinking water were collected to detect H5, H7 and H9 virus nucleic acids.Results One case of human infection with H7N9 virus was confirmed. The case had a definite history of exposure to live poultry and was discharged from the hospital after treatment. Twenty one close contacts had no respiratory symptoms, such as fever, after the longest incubation period. Intensive surveillance for 2 weeks found no other human infection with H7N9 virus cases. The detection results of all external environment samples were negative. The patient took no protective measures when raising poultry, and the local medical personnel were unfamiliar with diagnosis and response of human infection with avian influenza virus.Conclusion The source of infection might be the exposure to live poultry, so it is necessary to strengthen the health education in local peple and professional training in medical staff.