Grand Rounds: Emerging swine-origin H3N2: population immunity and pandemic potential

April 13, 2012 9:00 AM

Presenter: Danuta Skowronski MD, FRCPC
Epidemiology Lead, Influenza & Emerging Respiratory Pathogens
BC Centre for Disease Control

Abstract:
In 2009, the WHO declared the first influenza pandemic of the 21st century, due to a swine origin H1N1 virus. In late 2011, human cases of another swine-origin influenza virus, this time of the H3N2 subtype, were identified in the United States. Children are primarily affected and half have had no swine exposure. Is this the next pandemic threat?

Drawing on partnerships and funding through the Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research, investigators have assessed population immunity to the swine H3N2 virus. They report sero-protection by age in more than 1000 sera collected as 100 per decade of life spanning <1 to 100 years of age in BC. Using pre-/post-immunization sera they also report whether the current seasonal influenza vaccine, with/without adjuvant, improves antibody protection. Findings will inform the likelihood of epidemic growth and the targeting of interventions.

Don’t miss the opportunity to hear exciting new results and to participate in early risk assessment around an emerging new pathogen.

B151

2206 East Mall

Contact Person Danielle Copp