A new highly infectious virus (code named G4) replicating in human cells and causing serious symptoms has emerged in China. An antibody test conducted showed about 10% of swine workers in a new study had been exposed.
Worse still, 4.4% of the general population appears to have been exposed.
This strain of virus (similar to H1N1) is, however, not completely new. It has been circulating in humans for the past five (5) years, according to Carl Bergstrom – a biologist at the University of Washington.
If not tackled quickly, G4 virus will further human adaptation and increase the risk of human pandemic.
The virus has successfully, so far, passed from animals to humans. Unlike many flu viruses, tests have shown that any immunity humans gain from exposure to seasonal flu does not provide protection from G4. There is no evidence yet that it can be spread from human to human.
The Chinese government has forwarded a detailed report on the virus’ activities to the WHO. A spokesman for the organization, Christian Libdmeier, told a Geneva briefing that they will study the report carefully, foster collaboration and keep a keen eye on animal population.
Zhao Lijian, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said on Tuesday: “We will take all necessary measured to prevent the spread of any virus.”
