Prolonged shedding of influenza A(H1N1)v virus: two case reports from France 2009
H Fleury1, S Burrel, C Balick Weber
1Virology laboratory, University Hospital Pellegrin, Bordeaux, France. hfleury@viro.u-bordeaux2.fr
Abstract:
We observed a prolonged shedding of virus 14 and 28 days after symptom onset in two patients with pandemic H1N1 influenza, who did not have immunodepression and were treated with neuraminidase inhibitor. This prolonged shedding was not associated with the emergence of resistance mutation H275Y in the viral neuraminidase gene.
Insights
Two patients with pandemic H1N1 influenza showed prolonged virus shedding 14 and 28 days post-symptom onset, despite neuraminidase inhibitor treatment. This shedding occurred without the H275Y resistance mutation in the neuraminidase gene.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Pandemic H1N1 influenza (pH1N1) is a significant global health concern.
- Neuraminidase inhibitors are a primary treatment for influenza.
- Understanding viral shedding patterns is crucial for disease control.
Observation:
- Prolonged shedding of pandemic H1N1 influenza virus was observed in two immunocompetent patients.
- Viral shedding persisted at 14 and 28 days after symptom onset.
- Patients received standard neuraminidase inhibitor therapy.
Findings:
- The prolonged viral shedding was not linked to the H275Y resistance mutation in the viral neuraminidase gene.
- This suggests alternative mechanisms may contribute to extended viral shedding.
- Neuraminidase inhibitor treatment did not prevent prolonged shedding in these cases.
Implications:
- Extended shedding may impact transmission dynamics and public health strategies.
- Further research is needed to elucidate mechanisms of prolonged H1N1 shedding.
- Clinical management of influenza may require reassessment in cases of prolonged viral shedding.
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