H2N3

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colspan=2 style="text-align: center; background-color: rgb(250,250,190)" | Influenza A virus subtype H1N2
Electron micrograph of an influenza virus particle
colspan=2 style="min-width:15em; text-align: center; background-color: rgb(250,250,190)" | Virus classification
Species	Influenza A virus

Influenza A virus subtype H1N2 is a subtype of the Influenza A virus, which is a member of the Orthomyxoviridae family. This subtype is known to infect both humans and animals, including pigs and birds. H1N2 is one of the many subtypes of influenza viruses that can cause seasonal flu epidemics in humans.

Virology

Influenza A viruses are characterized by two surface proteins: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). The H1N2 subtype is defined by the presence of the H1 hemagglutinin and the N2 neuraminidase. These proteins play crucial roles in the virus's ability to infect host cells and in the release of new viral particles from infected cells.

Genetic Reassortment

H1N2 viruses can arise through genetic reassortment, a process where two different influenza viruses infect the same cell and exchange genetic material. This can lead to the emergence of new virus strains with novel antigenic properties, potentially leading to pandemics if the new strain is able to efficiently transmit between humans.

Epidemiology

H1N2 has been detected in various parts of the world and is known to circulate among human populations, often co-circulating with other influenza subtypes such as H1N1 and H3N2. The virus can also be found in swine populations, where it can undergo reassortment with other swine influenza viruses.

Human Infections

Human infections with H1N2 are typically similar to those caused by other seasonal influenza viruses, presenting with symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue. The virus is transmitted from person to person primarily through respiratory droplets.

Prevention and Treatment

The primary method of prevention against H1N2 and other influenza viruses is vaccination. Seasonal influenza vaccines are formulated each year to protect against the most common circulating strains, which may include H1N2 if it is prevalent.

Antiviral Medications

Antiviral medications, such as oseltamivir and zanamivir, can be used to treat influenza infections, including those caused by H1N2. These medications are most effective when administered within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.

Public Health Implications

Monitoring and surveillance of influenza viruses, including H1N2, are critical for public health. This allows for the timely detection of new strains and the formulation of effective vaccines. Public health agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), play key roles in these efforts.

Also see

• Influenza A virus subtype H1N1
• Influenza A virus subtype H3N2
• Influenza pandemic
• Viral reassortment