The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Ingham County Health Department have reported a case of swine flu, also known as Influenza A H3N2v.
The patient, who lives in Ingham County, was diagnosed with the flu in late July. While this type of flu is commonly linked to pigs, officials are still figuring out how the person was exposed.
Both the MDHHS and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tested the sample. The MDHHS found it to be a possible case, and the CDC confirmed the diagnosis.
H3N2v is different from the more severe avian flu, according to MDHHS.
Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Chief Medical Executive, advised residents to watch for flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, and body aches. If you experience these symptoms, it’s recommended to get tested for both flu and COVID-19.
MDHHS notes that flu-related emergency visits across Michigan are currently low, and the general risk is low.
For those attending fairs or visiting farms, MDHHS suggests:
- Avoid eating or drinking in areas with livestock
- Don’t take personal items into pig areas
- High-risk individuals should stay away from pig barns
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer
- Avoid touching your face
Most people recover from the flu, but it can sometimes lead to severe illness, even in healthy individuals. If you have respiratory symptoms and have been in contact with livestock, tell your doctor so they can consider flu testing.