SwineCast 0430, WPE - Why WHO Is Concerned About H1N1 and You Should Be, Too

SwineCast 0430 Show Notes:

I have been among the group which is curious why the World Health Organization has shown such alarm about the current H1N1 strain. Dr. Greg Stephenson, Iowa State Veterinary Diagnostics Lab, raises the million dollar question regarding restricted movements and quarantines, with respect to H1N1.

Prior to 1990, only one pig was infected with the H1N1 virus, yet the potential for mass infection is very real due to a process of antigenic shift or recombination. Through a re-assortment process, genes can transfer from humans and avian species, as well as other pigs.

In addition to the H1N1 virus, two other common crossovers are the H3N2 and H1N2 viruses. Is this significant to you and what diagnostic measures are available to provide you with peace of mind?