Influenza viruses are of different kind and laterally type A is the one that infects birds and when eaten, human is prone to infection.
The most known and studied virus is H5N1 subtype. The substantial genetic differences between the subtypes that typically infect both people and birds. Within subtypes of avian influenza A viruses there also are different strains
While Avian influenza A H5 and H7 viruses can be distinguished as “low pathogenic” and “high pathogenic” forms respectively, the present focus and research is on dissemination of H5N1 influenza A viruses in avian populations so that the concern could be delineated.
A mutant H5N1 virus with the capability to spread rapidly amongst humans could be dangerous. If such mutants are traced, we could proceed with the development of vaccines and drugs. For which, we need to better understand the interaction between influenza A viruses and the mammalian host response, that has to play the role in pathogenesis.
A word about neuraminidase surface proteins; these are the ones where the various subtypes interact with. While many of the infections have been confirmed, a global approach for research and collaboration should be ascertained for faster development in this area.
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Influenza viruses are of different kind and laterally type A is the one that infects birds and when eaten, human is prone to infection.
The most known and studied virus is H5N1 subtype. The substantial genetic differences between the subtypes that typically infect both people and birds. Within subtypes of avian influenza A viruses there also are different strains
While Avian influenza A H5 and H7 viruses can be distinguished as “low pathogenic” and “high pathogenic” forms respectively, the present focus and research is on dissemination of H5N1 influenza A viruses in avian populations so that the concern could be delineated.
A mutant H5N1 virus with the capability to spread rapidly amongst humans could be dangerous. If such mutants are traced, we could proceed with the development of vaccines and drugs. For which, we need to better understand the interaction between influenza A viruses and the mammalian host response, that has to play the role in pathogenesis.
A word about neuraminidase surface proteins; these are the ones where the various subtypes interact with. While many of the infections have been confirmed, a global approach for research and collaboration should be ascertained for faster development in this area.
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