Peruvian study reveals alarming viral mutations impacting birds & marine life
A new study by Peruvian researchers identifies the flu type A/H5N1 lineage 2.3.4.4b. In late 2021, it spread from Europe to North America and, in 2022, to South America, devastating wild birds and poultry farms along the way. The scientists suggest that their analysis supports a single introduction of 2.3.4.4b into Peru from North America during October 2022, likely through the movements of migratory wild birds. The virus then infected local seabirds that share habitats with marine mammals.
In November 2022, scientists began documenting animal deaths along the Peruvian coast, including dolphins, sea lions, sanderlings, pelicans, and cormorants. The study, made possible by researchers quickly establishing new partnerships, identified the HPAI A/H5N1 virus in the animals and analyzed its mutations since entering South America.
The researchers expressed particular concern about the presence of PB2 D701N in two sea lion samples and in a human case reported in Chile. This mutation has been specifically linked to mammalian host adaptation and enhanced transmission. Of significant concern is the possibility of spillover into human populations.
