Scientists at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's National Centre for Foreign Animal Disease say they have mapped the full genetic sequence of the virus found in swine from Alberta. This development will help scientists around the world better understand the virus and its affect on animals. The mapping validates early test results and confirms that the virus found in the pigs is the same as the virus causing illness in humans around the world.
Researchers are now focusing on how the H1N1 flu virus affects swine. Although more study is needed, early observations suggest that infected animals become sick and recover naturally, just as they would if exposed to influenza viruses commonly seen in swine herds at a global level.
Ongoing CFIA research is examining whether or not other animals are susceptible to the virus. This information could be used to refine disease prevention and control measures. Studies are also underway to assess the effectiveness of current vaccines, and to develop better and faster diagnostic methods.
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