H5N1

H5N1 is a subtype of the Influenza A virus that can cause illness in humans and many other animal species. A bird-adapted strain of H5N1, called HPAI A(H5N1) for highly pathogenic avian influenza virus of type A of subtype H5N1, is the highly pathogenic causative agent of H5N1 flu, commonly known as avian influenza ("bird flu"). It is enzootic in many bird populations, especially in Southeast Asia. One strain of HPAI A(H5N1) is spreading globally after first appearing in Asia.

Overview

H5N1 is a highly infectious and severe disease in birds. Human cases of H5N1 avian influenza occur occasionally, but it is difficult to transmit the infection from person to person. When people do become infected, the mortality rate is about 60%.

Symptoms

In humans, the symptoms of H5N1 infection range from typical human influenza-like symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches) to eye infections (conjunctivitis), pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, viral pneumonia, and other severe and life-threatening complications.

Transmission

The exact sequence of events leading to human infection with H5N1 is not well understood, but direct contact with infected poultry, or surfaces and objects contaminated by their droppings, is thought to be the main route of human infection.

Prevention

Prevention of human infection is possible through a combination of measures, including a high level of biosecurity on poultry farms, vaccination of poultry, and culling of infected birds and flocks.

Treatment

Antiviral drugs, if administered early, can reduce the severity and duration of viral replication. A vaccine for H5N1 is available.

See also

• Influenza A virus subtype H1N1
• Influenza A virus subtype H3N2
• Influenza A virus subtype H7N9

H5N1 Resources
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