Avian influenza viruses in humans: lessons from past outbreaks. Issue 1 (14th December 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Li, Yao-Tsun; Linster, Martin; Mendenhall, Ian H; Su, Yvonne C F; Smith, Gavin J D
• Is Part Of: British medical bulletin. Volume 132:Issue 1(2019)
• Page Start: 81
• Page End: 95
• Publication Date: 2019-12-14
• Subjects: highly pathogenic avian influenza virus -- zoonotic viruses -- pandemics -- virus ecology -- live-bird markets -- virus spillover; Medicine -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1093/bmb/ldz036
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1420

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Human infections with avian influenza viruses (AIV) represent a persistent public health threat. The principal risk factor governing human infection with AIV is from direct contact with infected poultry and is primarily observed in Asia and Egypt where live-bird markets are common. Areas of agreement: Changing patterns of virus transmission and a lack of obvious disease manifestations in avian species hampers early detection and efficient control of potentially zoonotic AIV. Areas of controversy: Despite extensive studies on biological and environmental risk factors, the exact conditions required for cross-species transmission from avian species to humans remain largely unknown. Growing points: The development of a universal ('across-subtype') influenza vaccine and effective antiviral therapeutics are a priority. Areas timely for developing research: Sustained virus surveillance and collection of ecological and physiological parameters from birds in different environments is required to better understand influenza virus ecology and identify risk factors for human infection.