An Overview in the Primary Stage of Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Epidemic in Eastern Taiwan and Its Revelation

Ming-Ching Liu, Jiunn-Shyan Wu, Mei-Chu Lee, Chun-Ling Lai, Ching-Fen Ko, Yeong-Sheng Lee

2010 Vol.26 NO.25

Correspondence Author： Yeong-Sheng Lee

Abstract：

In the primary stage of the epidemic of novel influenza A (H1N1) in Eastern Taiwan, 2009, a total of 11 novel influenza A (H1N1) cases were reported in accordance with the investigation case definition. One was positive and the other 10 were excluded. Of the 10 excluded cases, one was confirmed as dengue fever. In June 2009, 149 specimens were collected through the H1N1 community surveillance in Eastern Taiwan by sentinel physicians, one seasonal influenza A (H3) and one novel influenza A (H1N1) were confirmed. In July (as of July 16), 72 specimens were tested, 2 seasonal influenza A (H3) and 5 novel influenza A (H1N1) were confirmed. A total of 221 specimens were collected from June 1 to July 16, 3 seasonal influenza A (H3) and 6 novel influenza A (H1N1) were confirmed but all of patients’ symptoms were mild, of which 5 were imported cases and 1 indigenous case without travel history. From week 27 to week 29, the proportion of novel influenza A (H1N1) virus in all positive cases in community surveillance in eastern Taiwan was 71.4%, which was lower than the surveillance proportion 88.2% in Taiwan area.
What were learnt from the primary stage of the epidemic and the prevention of novel influenza A (H1N1) in Eastern Taiwan are as following: (1) The community-based prevalence rate of novel influenza A (H1N1) virus is slightly lower than the rate in Taiwan area, but there is a clearly upward trend; (2) One who develops with non-specific flu symptoms and has a travel history, the possibility of dengue and chikungunya fever must be considered, and the specimens should be taken for further testing as far as possible; and (3) To follow-up the confirmed case that has no travel history; to those seriously-ill, death and cluster cases, intensified monitoring is needed in order to alleviate the impact on public health.