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Influenza |
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Humans are considered the reservoir for human-influenza viruses. Influenza-virus infections with different antigenic strains occur naturally in many animals, including avian species, swine, horses, mink and seals. Animal reservoirs are thought to contribute to the emergence of new human strains of human influenza viruses, perhaps by reassortment of animal strains with human strains. In the laboratory, ferrets are highly susceptible to human influenza and are often used as experimental models of influenza.
Transmission is by the airborne route and by direct contact. The transmission of animal-influenza strains from animals to humans is rare. However, ferrets housed in the laboratory will develop epizootic infection concomitant with human outbreaks of the disease. Ferret-to-human transmission of the virus has also been documented.
Influenza is an acute disease of the respiratory tract characterized by fever, headache, myalgia, prostration, coryza, sore throat, and cough. Viral pneumonia and gastrointestinal involvement manifested by nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may also develop.
Personnel should wear appropriate protective clothing and practice good personal hygiene if contact with animals suspected of having influenza is unavoidable.
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