Influenza A virus subtype H5N8

Influenza A virus subtype H5N8 is a subtype of the Influenza A virus that is highly pathogenic. It was first identified in Ireland in 1983, and has since been found in birds in multiple countries worldwide.

History

The first recorded case of H5N8 was in Ireland in 1983. Since then, the virus has been identified in numerous countries around the world, including China, Japan, South Korea, the United States, and several countries in Europe.

Transmission

H5N8 is primarily found in birds, particularly waterfowl and poultry. The virus is spread through direct contact with infected birds, or through contact with surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus.

Symptoms

In birds, symptoms of H5N8 infection can include sudden death, lack of energy and appetite, decreased egg production, and other signs of illness. In severe cases, the virus can cause high mortality rates in poultry.

Human infection

As of now, there have been no reported cases of human infection with H5N8. However, other subtypes of the Influenza A virus, such as H5N1 and H7N9, have caused serious illness and death in humans, so there is potential for H5N8 to pose a risk to human health.

Prevention and control

Prevention and control measures for H5N8 include surveillance of poultry and wild birds, biosecurity measures on farms, and culling of infected and exposed birds. Vaccination is not currently used as a control measure for H5N8.

See also

• Influenza A virus
• Influenza A virus subtype H5N1
• Influenza A virus subtype H7N9
• Influenza vaccine