A/H1N1 influenza

While the dissemination and new cases among humans seem to decrease, the first transmission FROM human TO pigs have been suspected in Canada; the signs are mild and the animals are recovering as well as the person who might have been responsible for this transmission.

This new event confirms and stresses the recommendation proposed in our recent article:
Biosecurity and surveillance remain the best action to date to protect our swine production in West and central Africa.

Following OIE and FAO recommendation, WHO has agreed on calling this epidemic influenza: the A/H1N1 flu; To avoid panic and confusion, we beg all veterinary services as well as communication units in RESEPI and RESOLAB members country to avoid the words “swine flu” when referring to the current H1N1 crisis to the media.

We also insist on reminding that this virus is been transmitted currently from Human to Human, therefore culling or banning of pig importation is not an efficient way to protect populations.
It might on the contrary create unnecessary psychosis and jeopardize an important source of quality proteins and incomes.

Please find attached official statement from FAO’s CVO as well as the official OMS/FAO/OIE statement to the consumers.

H1N1 and consumers

FAO’s CVO brief