Swine Flu Sample Resistant to Antiviral Oseltamivir

30 June 2009

Following testing in Denmark, resistance was also confirmed by the WHO Collaborating Centre at the Medical Research Council (MRC) National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) in the UK.

The virus remained susceptible to the antiviral zanamivir.

Professor Maria Zambon, Director of the Health Protection Agency's Centre for Infections and Head of the UK WHO National Influenza Centre, said:

"We have been monitoring antiviral drug resistance since the beginning of this outbreak. Routine sampling in the UK has shown that there is currently no resistance to either oseltamivir or zanamivir.

"HPA continues to watch for antiviral resistance and will be carrying out regular sample testing throughout this outbreak."

To help the Health Protection Agency identify cases of swine flu in the community, regular flu surveillance work is continuing throughout the summer, at the same pace that is applied during the normal "flu season" (October to May). This includes the routine sampling of swine flu samples for antiviral resistance.

General infection control practices and good respiratory hand hygiene can help to reduce transmission of all viruses, including swine flu. This includes:

• Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of virus from your hands to face or to other people.
• Cleaning hard surfaces (e.g. door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product.
• Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible.
• Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully.
• Making sure your children follow this advice.

Ends

For further information on swine flu visit the Health Protection Agency's website at www.hpa.org.uk/swineflu

For media enquiries only please contact the Health Protection Agency's Centre for Infections press office on 

020 8327 7080 
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020 8327 7097
020 8327 6690

Last reviewed: 30 June 2009