[Discoveries of avian influenza A(H9N2) virus in chickens and men infected by H9N2 virus in Guangzhou area].

Objective: To understand the epidemic status of avian influenza A virus in chickens and men in Guangzhou area and to prevent men suffering from avian influenza A (H5N1) virus.

Methods: Etiologic and serological surveys were conducted in chickens and men who were working in the poultry farms and slaughter house. Viruses were isolated with both MDCK cells and embryonated chicken eggs. Hemagglutination inhibition tests were performed by routine method.

Results: Anti-H9N2 antibody was found in 12.8% of the chickens and 5.1% of the workers.

Conclusions: Avian influenza virus H9N2 subtype existed in chickens and this subtype of influenza A virus might infect men.