Epidemiological characteristics of 5 cases of human infection with avian influenza A (H7N9) virus in Deqing, Zhejiang

Objective To understand the epidemiological characteristics of 5 cases of human infection with avian influenza A (H7N9) virus reported in Deqing, Zhejiang province, in January 2014,and provide evidence for the prevention and control of human infection with H7N9 virus. Methods All the confirmed cases and their close contacts were surveyed, and respiratory tract specimens were taken from the confirmed cases to detect the nucleic acid of H7N9 virus with real-time PCR. Results A total of 5 cases of human infection with H7N9 virus were confirmed in Deqing, no death cases were reported. Severe pneumonia developed in severe cases. The cases were distributed in 2 townships and the median age of the cases was 62 years (39-62 years). All the cases had exposures to alive poultry and 2 had chronic disease. All of their close contacts showed no influenza like symptoms, and no evidence of human to human transmission was found. Conclusion Early detection and treatment of the infection with H7N9 virus are essential for the improvement of patients' prognosis. By prompt isolation and treatment, strict medical observation for close contacts, terminal disinfection and closure of alive poultry markets, the epidemic was under control effectively.