Question

Recent Influenza Pandemic was due to :

• A. H1N1
• B. H5N1
• C. H7N7
• D. H3N2

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The recent influenza pandemic was caused by the H1N1 virus. This strain of the influenza virus is known for being a highly contagious respiratory pathogen that led to a global pandemic known as the swine flu pandemic in 2009. The identification of the specific strain is crucial in understanding the nature and spread of the infection. Here are some key steps in how H1N1 was identified as the cause:

• Virus Classification: Influenza viruses are classified into subtypes based on the combinations of two proteins on the virus's surface: Hemagglutinin (H) and Neuraminidase (N).
• Genetic Sequencing: Advanced techniques such as genetic sequencing are used to identify the specific H and N types. H1N1 refers to a specific combination where the virus contains type 1 hemagglutinin and type 1 neuraminidase.
• Epidemiological Studies: These studies track the spread and outbreak patterns, confirming the pandemic nature of the H1N1 virus.
• Clinical Diagnosis: Symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue were characteristic of H1N1, prompting further investigation and laboratory testing.

This led to the conclusion and announcement by health organizations that H1N1 was the strain responsible for the recent influenza pandemic.