Singapore: The National Health and Family Planning Commission of China has notified WHO of an additional 10 laboratory-confirmed cases of human infection with influenza A (H7N9) virus.

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Untiil April 11, a total of 38 patients have been laboratory confirmed with influenza A (H7N9) virus in China; including 10 deaths, 19 severe cases and nine mild cases. More than 760 close contacts of the confirmed cases are being closely monitored.

The Chinese government has reported that it is investigating the event and has heightened disease surveillance. Retrospective testing of recently reported cases with severe respiratory infection may uncover additional cases that were previously unrecognized.

An inter-government task force has been formally established, with the National Health and Family Planning Commission leading the coordination along with the Ministry of Agriculture and other key ministries. The animal health sector has intensified investigations into the possible sources and reservoirs of the virus.