The global spread of H5N1 influenza in mammals
The article "The Global H5N1 Influenza Panzootic in Mammals," published in Nature, provides a comprehensive review of the recent spread and impact of the H5N1 influenza virus among mammalian populations worldwide. The H5N1 virus has shifted from primarily affecting birds to infecting a diverse array of mammals, including marine and terrestrial species. This shift raises concerns about the virus's adaptability and its potential for further spread. The review highlights instances of sustained transmission of H5N1 among mammals, particularly in Europe, among marine mammals in South America, and in dairy cattle in the United States, raising concerns about its potential to adapt further and possibly infect humans.
The research underscores the rapid evolution of H5N1 through genomic reassortment and the altered ecology of the virus, which could create new pathways for spillover to humans. Overall, the article emphasizes the urgent need for a coordinated global response to address the challenges posed by the H5N1 influenza panzootic, highlighting the interconnectedness of animal and human health.
