First human infection of avian influenza A(H5N6) virus reported in Lao People's Democratic Republic, February–March 2021. Issue 2 (10th November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sengkeopraseuth, Bounthanom; Co, Kim Carmela; Leuangvilay, Phetdavanh; Mott, Joshua A.; Khomgsamphanh, Boungnasith; Somoulay, Virasack; Tsuyuoka, Reiko; Chiew, May; Ketmayoon, Pakapak; Jones, Joyce; Pusch, Elizabeth; Jang, Yunho; Barnes, John; Davis, Charles Todd; Phommachanh, Phouvong; Khamphaphongphane, Bouaphanh; Olsen, Sonja J.; Xangsayyarath, Phonepadith
• Is Part Of: Influenza and other respiratory viruses. Volume 16:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 181
• Page End: 185
• Publication Date: 2021-11-10
• Subjects: H5N6 subtype -- human infection -- influenza A virus -- Laos -- poultry -- rapid response team; Influenza -- Periodicals; Respiratory infections -- Periodicals; Virus diseases -- Periodicals; Influenza, Human -- Periodicals; Respiratory Tract Diseases -- Periodicals; Virus Diseases -- Periodicals; Grippe -- Périodiques; Appareil respiratoire -- Infections -- Périodiques; Maladies à virus -- Périodiques; 616.203
• DOI: 10.1111/irv.12934
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1750-2640

Abstract

Abstract: In March 2021, Lao People's Democratic Republic (Laos) reported an avian influenza A(H5N6) virus infection in a 5‐year‐old child identified through sentinel surveillance. This was the first human A(H5N6) infection reported outside of China. A multidisciplinary investigation undertook contact tracing and enhanced human and animal surveillance in surrounding villages and live bird markets. Seven Muscovy ducks tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N6) viruses. Sequenced viruses belonged to clade 2.3.4.4h and were closely related to viruses detected in poultry in Vietnam and to previous viruses detected in Laos. Surveillance and coordinated outbreak response remain essential to global health security.