Report on Influenza Variant in Swine in China Lacks Context

Significant attention is being paid to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences this week. The study says a Eurasian avian-like H1N1 swine influenza virus with 2009 pandemic genes can facilitate human infection. Animal health experts from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), pork industry veterinarians and U.S. universities have reviewed the study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, and agree the study has scientific rigor. However, it does not contain important context essential for complete understanding of the present situation overseas nor the potential threat to the U.S. swine herd and consumers.

The following information helps broaden understanding of the H1N1 influenza virus in the study.