CLINICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF H1N1 INFLUENZA TAQMAN REAL TIME PCR POSITIVE CASES

Abstract

Background: A novel swine origin influenza virus (H1N1) is spreading worldwide and become the first pandemic of the 21st century. The currently circulating strain of swine origin influenza virus of the H1N1 strain has undergone triple reassortment and contains genes from the avian, swine and human viruses. H1N1 critical illness mostly affects young patients and it is often fatal.

Aim: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the clinical characteristic of H1N1 infection in a tertiary care institute.

Material & Methods: A total of 251 pharyangeal and nasal swabs from suspected cases of swineflu were processed by TaqMan real-time PCR (CDC protocol). Clinical co-relation with presenting sign and symptoms  and analysis was done.

Results: 36 (14%) were confirmed as positive. The clinical picture was characterized by fever (88%), cough (94%), sorethroat (35%), nasal catarrh (51%), chest pain (0.4%). Chest X-ray findings suggested association of consolidation with positive cases (47%).

Discussion: Strong clinical association is seen in those who were It was also noted that 2009 H1N1 influenza illness predominantly affects young patients.

Conclusion: The knowledge and technology translation previously acquired through courses by health care providers were the key in controlling the first influenza A (H1N1) 2009 cases. Hospitalized cases of H1N1 influeza should be monitored carefully and vaccination is a good alternative to control such pandemic.