Avian Influenza Transmission, Redux

Two studies provide further insight into the possibility that the avian influenza A (H5N1) virus might cause a human pandemic.

The report that two research groups had genetically modified avian influenza A (H5N1) viruses to enable transmission among ferrets via respiratory droplets generated intense public debate about whether the information could be published. This spring, the U.S. National Science Advisory Board on Biosecurity decided to allow publication, and the first paper, by Imai and colleagues, appeared in May (JW Infect Dis May 9 2012). The second one has now been released, along with a study modeling the likelihood that in nature, an avian influenza strain could evolve to be transmissible in mammals.

Herfst and colleagues examined whether an influenza A (H5N1) virus isolated from a human host could be genetically modified to facilitate airborne transmissi…

Reviewing Author

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Avian Influenza Transmission, Redux

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Reviewing Author