A case variant of H1N2 has been identified in Central Alberta. Around 9:00AM on November 4th, Chief Medical Officer of Health and Chief Provincial Veterinarian, Dr. Keith Lehman released a statement regarding the newly identified case of influenza.

H1N2 is rare with only 27 cases reported globally since 2005 and no cases in Canada prior to this one that was identified in mid-October.

“An influenza virus typically found it swine has been detected in Alberta. This currently appears to be one isolated case. It is also the only case of influenza that has been reported so far this flu season,” explained Dr. Hinshaw during an update.

At this time, the doctor believes there is no risk to the public.

“The patient experienced mild symptoms was tested and then quickly recovered. There is no evidence at this time that the virus has spread further,” added Hinshaw.

Although the virus typically is spread from swine to human, Dr. Hinshaw says there are no risks associated with eating pork. She believes the identified case has no relation to any swine slaughter houses in the province.

In conjunction with the COVID-19 testing, Alberta Health Services will be providing optional testing for influenza.  

“Retrospective testing of Central Alberta’s COVID testing for the past two weeks is almost complete and no influenza positive samples have been found. Starting today, AHS will also proactively offer influenza testing to residents of parts of Central Alberta if they are presenting for COVID-19 testing at an AHS assessment centre,” said Hinshaw.

The doctor says this is the first identified case of H1N2 in Alberta but that it's possible some cases have gone undiagnosed. 

The following is a statement from Alberta's Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw, and Chief Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Keith Lehman sent around 9:30 AM on November 4th.

“A confirmed case of variant Influenza A (H1N2)v has been detected in central Alberta. This currently appears to be one isolated case and there is no increased risk to Albertans at this time. This is the only influenza case reported in Alberta so far this flu season.

“The virus was detected in mid-October after an Alberta patient sought medical care with influenza-like symptoms. The patient experienced mild symptoms, was tested and then quickly recovered. There is no evidence at this time that the virus has spread further.

“Health officials, in conjunction with Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, have launched a public health investigation to determine the source of the virus and to verify that no spread occurred. The Government of Alberta will continue working closely with Alberta Health Services, the Public Health Agency of Canada and other partners across Canada.

“AHS will proactively offer influenza testing to residents in parts of central Alberta if they are presenting for COVID-19 testing at an AHS assessment centre. This testing will be optional and supports our ongoing influenza surveillance in the region.

“We are taking this seriously, but Albertans should know that sporadic cases of variant influenza have been reported over the past decade in North America. Variant Influenza A (H1N2) is rare with only 27 cases reported globally since 2005, and no cases in Canada prior to this one.

“H1N2 is not a food-related illness. It is not transmissible to people through pork meat or other products that come from pigs and there is no risk associated with eating pork.

 “We will keep Albertans informed of the outcomes of the public health investigation.”

H1N2 viruses commonly circulate in North American swine herds.

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