The Norwegian Institute of Public Health has informed WHO of a mutation detected in three H1N1 viruses. The viruses were isolated from the first two fatal cases of pandemic influenza in the country and one patient with severe illness.
The virus with this mutation remains sensitive to the antiviral drugs, oseltamivir and zanamivir, and studies show that currently available pandemic vaccines confer protection.
Worldwide, a similar mutation in viruses has been detected. In addition to Norway, the mutation has been observed in Brazil, China, Japan, Mexico, Ukraine, and the US.
WHO said "The mutations appear to occur sporadically and spontaneously... no evidence currently suggests that these mutations are leading to an unusual increase in the number of H1N1 infections or a greater number of severe or fatal cases".
The virus with this mutation remains sensitive to the antiviral drugs, oseltamivir and zanamivir, and studies show that currently available pandemic vaccines confer protection.
Worldwide, a similar mutation in viruses has been detected. In addition to Norway, the mutation has been observed in Brazil, China, Japan, Mexico, Ukraine, and the US.
WHO said "The mutations appear to occur sporadically and spontaneously... no evidence currently suggests that these mutations are leading to an unusual increase in the number of H1N1 infections or a greater number of severe or fatal cases".
WHO is monitoring influenza viruses and remain vigilant for any virus' changes.
Source: WHO
