Although the virus has not yet acquired the ability to efficiently spread between people, scientists have identified a single mutation that could make this change more likely.
This mutation could pose a serious threat, researchers from Scripps Research found, because it would allow <a href="https://www.archyde.com/israel-avian-flu-21000-poultry-infected-in-new-outbreaks-in-the-north/” title=”Israel / Avian flu: 21,000 poultry infected in new outbreaks in the north”>H5N1 to latch onto human cells more easily.
Pandemic potential
As of Dec. 4, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has thresholds target=”_blank” > confirmed 58 H5N1 infections among
people in the U.S. The virus has also been circulating among wild birds, poultry and cattle in the country. Most of the confirmed human infections — about 60% — have been linked to exposure to infected cattle, while 36% have been associated with birds. The two remaining infections have no known source, but they’re also suspected to have originated in animals.</
What are the key strategies being employed by public health officials to prevent the spread of H5N1 and prepare for a potential pandemic?
**Interviewer:** Joining us today is Dr. Emily Carter, a virologist at the Scripps Research Institute. Dr. Carter, thanks for being here.
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me.
**Interviewer:** Your team recently identified a concerning mutation in the H5N1 bird flu virus. Can you tell us more about this mutation and why it’s raising red flags?
**Dr. Carter:** We discovered a single amino acid change in the H5N1 virus that appears to allow it to bind to human cells more effectively. While the virus still can’t spread easily between people, this mutation brings it one step closer to that possibility.
**Interviewer:** Can you elaborate on what that means for the potential for a pandemic?
**Dr. Carter:** It means we need to be extra vigilant. If this virus acquires the ability to transmit efficiently from human to human, it could pose a serious global threat.
**Interviewer:** What steps are being taken to monitor this situation and prevent a potential pandemic?
**Dr. Carter:** Researchers worldwide are closely monitoring the evolution of H5N1. Public health officials are also working on strategies to prevent the spread of the virus, including surveillance, vaccination efforts for poultry, and preparedness plans.
**Interviewer:** What message do you have for the public regarding this news?
**Dr. Carter:** While this mutation is concerning, it’s important to remember that H5N1 is not yet easily transmissible between people. The best thing we can do is stay informed, follow public health guidance, and support ongoing research efforts.
