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ARCHIVE: Pandemic (H1N1) 2009
The virus associated with the first human cases in Mexico and subsequent spread to other countries across the world has the most characteristics of strains of influenza viruses found in pigs. There is currently no evidence that pigs are involved in the epidemiology of this outbreak of influenza in humans.
There have been several reports of the virus which is currently causing disease in humans being found in pigs in other countries, including the UK. It is not uncommon for pigs to be affected by influenza. There is no food safety risk: pandemic (H1N1) 2009 has not been shown to be transmissible to people through eating properly handled and cooked pork or pork products.
Defra continues to monitor this situation. Updates on the latest situation are available here. Further information and situation updates on the virus from around the world can be found at the World Organisation for Animal Health’s (OIE) website.
Further information
- Health Protection Agency - Advice for the public and health care professionals.
- World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE)
- World Health Organisation
Page last modified: December 17, 2009