Shenzhen has added the H7N9 avian influenza virus to its surveillance list.

Southern Daily News (Reporters: Xiang Yuhang, Deng Xiang) — H7N9 avian influenza is a novel strain of avian influenza that was first detected in late March 2013 in Shanghai and Anhui. The H7N9 avian influenza virus represents the first newly identified subtype of influenza virus globally. Yesterday morning, the Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention held a press conference, stating that no H7N9 influenza virus has yet been detected among the local population in Shenzhen. Since the beginning of this year, influenza-like cases in Shenzhen have been tested as usual, and there has been no significant increase in the number of pneumonia patients admitted to hospitals across the city. According to reports, the CDC has added this new virus to its list of influenza surveillance targets for the entire city. The CDC also urges citizens to avoid contact with and consumption of dead poultry and livestock when visiting graves during the Qingming Festival.

　　 There has been no significant increase in hospitalized patients with pneumonia.

　　According to influenza surveillance data from sentinel hospitals across the city since the beginning of this year, the percentage of outpatient cases presenting with fever and influenza-like symptoms currently stands at around 3.6–4%, slightly lower than the typical percentage observed during this season in previous years. Ma Hanwu, Deputy Director of the Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, revealed that the number of pneumonia-related hospital admissions across the city has not increased significantly either, with each hospital in Shenzhen admitting between 10 and 20 patients per week.

　　Starting in March each year, the intensity of influenza cases in Shenzhen begins to rise, and influenza activity picks up. Long‑term influenza surveillance data from Shenzhen show that the peak influenza season occurs between May and July each year. Currently, the disease control authorities have established 39 monitoring sites—including hospitals, community health centers, schools, poultry farms, and wholesale markets—where influenza viruses are sampled and tested weekly to track the latest influenza trends.

　　Ma Hanwu said that human infections with H7N2 and H7N3 avian influenza viruses have been reported in countries such as the Netherlands and Italy, but H7N9 is currently the first case worldwide. He also cautioned the public that the current situation regarding H7N9 avian influenza infections is not particularly alarming, as this strain rarely infects humans—it remains an avian influenza virus that primarily circulates among birds, so there is no need to panic. He explained that the exact mechanisms by which this virus infects humans are still unknown; for now, the approach is to promptly report, investigate, treat, and conduct medical research on any infected animals or individuals. “Shenzhen currently boasts an excellent influenza testing technology platform and a high level of research expertise, enabling us to effectively contain outbreaks at their earliest stages.”

　　As the Qingming Festival approaches, Ma Hanwu reminds citizens to educate their children to avoid contact with animals when visiting gravesites in the suburbs or enjoying spring outings. If they discover dead birds or poultry, they must report it to the relevant authorities—under no circumstances should they handle the carcasses on their own, let alone slaughter and consume them. Meat and poultry products purchased from the market that have passed quarantine inspections can be handled in accordance with hygiene standards and pose no harm to ordinary consumption. He advises citizens to boost their immunity by getting vaccinated with common vaccines.

　　 Influenza monitoring at Shenzhen Port has not yet revealed any abnormalities.

　　The reporter also learned that the Shenzhen Inspection and Quarantine Bureau will closely monitor the epidemic situation, conduct influenza surveillance at all Shenzhen ports, strengthen temperature checks and medical inspections of inbound and outbound travelers, and promptly report any suspected infectious disease outbreaks while taking appropriate measures.

　　At the same time, we will focus on using various forms of communication—such as electronic display screens, publicity boards, and notice boards—at border checkpoints to provide updates on the current human infection with H7N9 avian influenza outbreak and to deliver targeted education on preventive measures. We will also set up consultation stations to offer essential health advice and health consultations to travelers entering and leaving the country.

　　Recently, the bureau will focus on inspecting the operational status of temperature screening equipment at ports of entry, as well as the stockpiles of protective supplies and disinfectant products. At the same time, it will maintain robust on-duty readiness, ensure unimpeded communication, and promptly report any sudden outbreaks. In addition, it will continue to keep information-sharing channels open with local health authorities and the relevant departments in Hong Kong and Macao, ensuring that the port quarantine joint prevention and control mechanism operates effectively.

　　From January to March this year, quarantine inspections at Shenzhen’s ports of entry and exit identified 1,962 inbound and outbound travelers exhibiting symptoms such as fever and runny nose. A total of 299 cases of influenza were detected, but no H7 subtype of influenza A was found. Current influenza surveillance at Shenzhen’s ports has not yet revealed any abnormalities.

　　 ■Flu Prevention Tips

　　1. Pay attention to nutritional hygiene:

　　Frequent handwashing, frequent ventilation and air exchange indoors, proper nutrition, and maintaining good physical condition all help prevent influenza and other respiratory infectious diseases.

　　2. Preventing the Spread of Infection:

　　When symptoms of respiratory infection such as sneezing or coughing occur, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or handkerchief.

　　3. Seek medical attention if you develop symptoms:

　　As soon as symptoms of acute respiratory infection such as fever and cough appear—especially if high fever or difficulty breathing develops—seek medical attention promptly.

　　4. Avoid contact with sources of infection:

　　Avoid contact with and consumption of sick (or dead) poultry and livestock.

(Original Title: H7N9 Avian Influenza Virus Now Included in Surveillance)