H1N1 Taiwan

The H1N1 Influenza-A Virus Taiwan/1/86 is a strain of the H1N1 subtype of the Influenza A virus. This particular strain was first identified in Taiwan in 1986 and has since been studied for its epidemiological and virological characteristics.

The H1N1 subtype of the Influenza A virus has a long history, dating back to the 1918 pandemic, which was one of the deadliest pandemics in human history. The H1N1 virus has undergone significant genetic changes over the years, leading to various outbreaks and pandemics .

In late October 1986, an outbreak of influenza-like illness was detected at the Naval Air Station in Key West, Florida. The outbreak was associated with airplane travel and affected a squadron that had traveled to Puerto Rico for a temporary assignment. The H1N1 Influenza-A Virus Taiwan/1/86 was recovered from three symptomatic patients during this outbreak . This was the first reported outbreak of respiratory illness due to this strain in the continental United States during the 1986–1987 influenza season.

The H1N1 Influenza-A Virus Taiwan/1/86 is known for its high mutation rates, which is a common characteristic of influenza viruses. These mutations can lead to changes in the virus’s antigenic properties, making it challenging to develop effective vaccines . The strain was considered significantly different from other H1N1 viruses that re-emerged in 1977 .

The outbreak in 1986 highlighted the potential for rapid spread of the virus through travel and close contact among individuals. Despite the high attack rate among the squadron members, there was no evidence that the outbreak spread to the surrounding civilian communities in Puerto Rico or Key West . This incident underscored the importance of monitoring and controlling influenza outbreaks, especially in military and other close-contact settings.