Influenza A Virus (Flu)

Prepared by: Michael J. Huerkamp, DVM, Diplomate ACLAM
Date: April 2, 1999

Agent: Influenza A Virus (Flu)

“Flu” is a common infectious disease of humans characterized by fever, muscle pain, sore throat and cough lasting several days. Elderly persons, children and persons with underlying health problems are at increased risk for complications and death from influenza infection. “Flu” epidemics occur annually in the United States.

Potential Hazard: Mice and ferrets used in research may be intentionally infected with influenza A virus strains. Virus may be present in respiratory tissues or secretions from infected animals. The primary risk of infection of animal caretakers is through inhalation of virus from aerosols generated by infected animals. Humans have not been reported to be infected with laboratory strains of virus. However, in research there is the unknown potential for introducing transmissible viruses with novel antigentic composition into humans.

Recommended Precautions: Annual influenza vaccination is recommended, but not required. The animal biosafety level II practices (DAR SOP 400-3) will protect husbandry personnel against exposure or infection.

References:Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories, 3rd edition, CDC-NIH, 1993, pp. 111-2.
MMWR 39(RR-7): 1-13, 1990.
Vaccine 11: 55-60, 1993.