Human infection with avian influenza A(H7N2) virus—Virginia, 2002

Abstract

Background: In March 2002, an outbreak of low-pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) A(H7N2) was detected among commercial poultry operations in Virginia. Methods: We performed a serosurvey of 80 government workers involved in efforts to control the outbreak. Results: One study participant who assisted with disposal of infected birds tested positive for neutralizing antibodies to influenza A(H7N2) by microneutralization assay and H7-specific IgM antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The acute infection was temporally associated with an influenza-like illness that resolved without hospitalization. Conclusion: This study documents the earliest evidence of human infection with an H7 influenza virus of the North American lineage.