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Monitoring Influenza Virus Survival Outside the Host Using Real-Time Cell Analysis
Published on: February 20, 2021
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[Influenza surveillance program in 2002-2003, in China]
1Chinese National Influenza Center, Department of Influenza, Institute for Viral Disease Control and prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100052, China.
Zhonghua Liu Xing Bing Xue Za Zhi = Zhonghua Liuxingbingxue Zazhi
|December 23, 2003
Summary
Influenza A (H3N2) and B/Victoria viruses predominated during 2002-2003 in China, differing from previous years. This shift suggests evolving influenza virus epidemiology, highlighting the need to monitor HA gene variations.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Context:
- Influenza surveillance is crucial for understanding viral circulation and informing public health strategies.
- Co-circulation of multiple influenza virus subtypes (H1N1, H3N2, and B lineages) is common.
- Previous years' influenza patterns in China showed different dominant strains.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence and characteristics of influenza virus subtypes circulating in China between April 2002 and June 2003.
- To analyze the genetic variations of influenza virus strains, particularly the HA gene.
- To identify shifts in epidemiological features of influenza in China.
Summary:
- A total of 1,113 influenza virus strains were identified from 16,135 specimens, with an isolation rate of 6.9%.
- Influenza A (H3N2) (48.9%) and B/Victoria (36.4%) were the predominant subtypes, unlike in previous years.
- Influenza A (H3N2) circulated year-round, while B/Victoria predominantly circulated in winter. Sequence analysis revealed variations in the HA gene.
Impact:
- The study identified a significant change in influenza epidemiology in China, with a rise in B/Victoria proportion and widespread circulation.
- Findings underscore the importance of continuous surveillance and genetic monitoring of influenza viruses, especially influenza A (H3N2).
- This research contributes to a better understanding of influenza dynamics and aids in the development of effective control measures.
