Avian influenza virus: Everything To Know

Avian influenza virus: History, Outbreak, Cure, How It works, who discovered It, what’s New And Everything To Know

Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is caused by the influenza A virus and can infect both birds and humans. Here are some key points about avii an influenza:

Types of Avian Influenza:

• • Avian flu is caused by influenza A viruses that naturally spread among wild aquatic birds worldwide.
  • These viruses can also infect domestic poultry and other bird species.
  • Bird flu viruses do not normally infect humans, but sporadic human infections have occurred.

Pathogenicity:

• • The type with the greatest risk is highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
  • HPAI strains, such as H5N1, pose significant threats to both birds and humans.

History:

• • Avian influenza has been recorded since at least 1878 when it was differentiated from other diseases causing high bird mortality.
  • Outbreaks have become more common due to the high density and movement of poultry in intensive production systems.

Recent Outbreaks (2023):

• • Ecuador:
    • In January 2023, a nine-year-old girl in rural Ecuador contracted avian influenza A (H5) after contact with backyard poultry.
    • This marked the first reported case of human infection caused by avian influenza A (H5) in the Latin America and also Caribbean region.
  • Cambodia:
    • In February 2023, an 11-year-old girl from Cambodia succumbed to avian influenza A (H5N1).
    • The virus belonged to clade 2.3.2.1c, similar to those also circulating in poultry in Southeast Asia.
  • Chile:
    • In March 2023, a 53-year-old male in northern Chile tested positive for avian influenza A (H5).

How It Works:

• • Avian influenza viruses primarily infect birds, especially waterfowl.
  • Transmission occurs through respiratory secretions, feces, and also contaminated environments.
  • In humans, exposure to infected birds or their environments can lead to zoonotic infections.

Cure and Treatment:

• • Antiviral medication
  • Prevention involves minimizing exposure to infected birds and also practicing good hygiene.

Recent Developments:

• • The world’s poultry population has grown significantly, contributing to increased avian influenza prevalence.
  • While companion birds in captivity are unlikely to contract the virus, wild birds and poultry remain susceptible.