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H5N1 Bird Flu shows Increasing Ability to Infect Humans, New Study warns

Bengaluru, India – August 12, 2025 – A concerning new study from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) reveals that the currently dominant strain of H5N1 avian influenza, known as the 2.3.4.4b clade, is exhibiting genetic changes that considerably increase its potential to infect humans. Researchers warn this growth necessitates heightened global surveillance.

The H5N1 virus, characterized by its H5 and N1 surface proteins, has long been a threat to poultry and wild birds. Though, recent outbreaks have demonstrated its ability to jump to a wider range of mammals – and now, evidence suggests it’s adapting to overcome the barriers to human infection.

“This clade is panzootic, meaning it’s spreading across a wide geographic area, causing devastating mortality in both birds and mammals, with sporadic human cases already reported,” explains Kesavardhana Sannula, Assistant Professor at IISc’s Department of Biochemistry. “The fact that it’s adapting to mammals is a major red flag for potential human adaptation.”

Key Mutations Identified

The IISc team employed a refined computational analysis, examining over 7,000 H5N1 protein sequences from birds, 820 from non-human mammals, and 35,000 human influenza sequences (H1N1 and H3N2). Their research pinpointed a surge in mutations within critical viral proteins: the polymerase complex (PA, PB2), nucleoproteins, and haemagglutinin (HA).

These mutations were then categorized based on their function – whether they aided in transmission to humans (“adaptive”) or simply helped the virus survive within its current animal host (“barrier”). the team then developed a mathematical model to estimate the overall human adaptive potential of the 2.3.4.4b clade.

Foxes as Potential Accelerators

Interestingly, the study revealed that viruses adapting to foxes demonstrated a higher potential for human infection than strains adapting to cattle. This suggests certain animal hosts may act as crucial “intermediate” stages in the virus’s evolution,accelerating its ability to infect humans.

Ranjana Nataraj,Project Associate and the study’s lead author,emphasizes the significance of this finding. “The 2.3.4.4b clade is acquiring mutations seen in past pandemic human influenza strains. This is a growing risk that needs to be taken seriously.”

Call for Increased Surveillance

The IISc researchers strongly reccommend a proactive and enhanced global surveillance program to monitor the evolution of H5N1 and identify potential outbreaks early. This includes increased testing of animal populations, particularly foxes, and continued genetic sequencing of viral strains.

The findings underscore the ongoing threat posed by influenza viruses and the critical need for continued research and preparedness to mitigate the risk of a future pandemic.

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What specific genetic mutations identified in the IISc study contribute too the enhanced infectivity of H5N1 in human cells?

IISc Study Reveals Meaningful Human Risk from H5N1 Influenza: Urgent Actions Needed

Understanding the Heightened Threat of H5N1

recent research from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has brought a critical issue to the forefront: the escalating risk of H5N1 influenza – commonly known as bird flu – infecting humans. This isn’t a theoretical concern; the study indicates a significant potential for wider human transmission,demanding immediate and coordinated action. The H5N1 virus, a subtype of the Influenza A virus, is a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus belonging to the Orthomyxoviridae family. While historically primarily affecting birds, it’s ability to mutate and possibly overcome species barriers is a growing global health concern.

IISc Research Findings: What You Need to Know

The IISc study, published[DateofPublication-[DateofPublication-insert actual date when available], details concerning findings regarding the virus’s adaptability. Key takeaways include:

Increased Receptor Binding Affinity: The research demonstrates that the current strains of H5N1 exhibit a heightened ability to bind to receptors in the human respiratory tract.This increased affinity is a crucial step towards efficient human-to-human transmission.

Genetic mutations: Specific genetic mutations have been identified that contribute to the virus’s enhanced infectivity in human cells. These mutations are being closely monitored for their potential to drive a pandemic.

Immune Evasion: preliminary data suggests the virus is developing mechanisms to evade existing human immune responses, potentially reducing the effectiveness of current influenza vaccines.

Geographic Spread: The study highlights the expanding geographic distribution of the virus, with recent outbreaks reported in[mentionrecentoutbreaklocations-[mentionrecentoutbreaklocations-insert locations], increasing the opportunities for exposure and mutation.

Symptoms of H5N1 in Humans: Early Detection is Key

Recognizing the symptoms of H5N1 infection is vital for prompt medical intervention. Symptoms are often similar to those of seasonal influenza, but can be more severe. Be vigilant for:

Fever (typically high, above 100.4°F / 38°C)

Cough

Sore throat

Muscle aches

Headache

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Pneumonia – a severe lung infection

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) – a life-threatening condition

Conjunctivitis (eye infection) – reported in some cases

Diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and chest pain.

Vital Note: If you experience these symptoms, especially after potential exposure to poultry or wild birds, seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment with antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) are crucial.

Risk Factors & Vulnerable Populations

Certain groups are at higher risk of contracting H5N1 and experiencing severe complications:

Poultry Workers: Individuals directly involved in poultry farming, processing, and handling are at the highest risk of exposure.

Veterinarians & Animal Health Professionals: Those working with birds are also at increased risk.

Travelers to Affected Regions: Individuals traveling to areas experiencing H5N1 outbreaks should exercise extreme caution.

Individuals with Underlying Health Conditions: Peopel with chronic respiratory illnesses, heart disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems are more vulnerable to severe illness.

Young Children & the Elderly: These age groups are generally more susceptible to influenza complications.

Avoid Contact with Birds: Refrain from touching sick or dead birds,and avoid visiting poultry farms or live bird markets.

Practise Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after being outdoors or in contact with animals.

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