Increase in Eyeworm Infections in Eastern Europe

were included in the analysis to rule out potential cross-reactivity with influenza A(H7N7) virus (5). HI titers >10 and MN titers >20 were considered positive; only HI-positive serum samples confirmed 3 times by MN assay were considered positive results for influenza A(H7N7) virus. We detected antibodies against influenza A(H7N7) virus in convalescent-phase serum samples from the 3 H7 subtype-positive patients and 2 asymptomatic persons but found no seropositivity against other H7 subtype viruses (Table). Because of lack of acute-phase serum samples, we could not assess whether seropositivity for the 2 asymptomatic persons, 1 (RA32) of whom worked with poultry before the outbreak, was caused by infection acquired during the outbreak. All workers were trained and most participants, including the 2 asymptomatic influenza A(H7N7) virus–seropositive persons, reported that PPE was commonly used during culling on infected premises. Nevertheless, it is likely that worker compliance with PPE was not always 100% during the 3-week outbreak because of poor knowledge and real perception of biologic risks among workers. Future efforts should ensure timely collection of paired serum samples from all workers involved in avian influenza outbreaks, especially when infections occur in humans. Strict compliance with recommended preventive control measures and serologic surveillance programs are crucial to avoid and eventually assess risk for infections with avian influenza viruses in persons exposed to infected poultry.