Emergence and interstate spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) in dairy cattle in the United States
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses cross species barriers and have the potential to cause pandemics.
Molecular and ecological determinants of mammalian adaptability in avian influenza virus
The adaptability is a key factor in AIV to infect multiple non-avian species, including humans, companion animals, aquatic mammals, carnivores, and other mammals.
Finalising the WHO Pandemic Agreement for a safer future
The aim of such an agreement is to enhance global preparedness for future COVID-19-like pandemics and mitigate the risk of similar catastrophic consequences.
Dairy cows develop protective immunity against reinfection with bovine H5N1 influenza virus
Infection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b in dairy cows causes severe mastitis and milk production losses.
News
Scientific Papers
Policy & Recommendations
Avian Influenza A(H5N1) - Mexico
On 2 April 2025, the International Health Regulations (IHR) National Focal Point (NFP) for Mexico notified WHO of the country’s first laboratory-confirmed human infection with an avian influenza A(H5N1) virus in the state of Durango.
News
Scientific Papers
Policy & Recommendations
Updated joint FAO/WHO/WOAH public health assessment of recent influenza A(H5) virus events in animals and people
At the present time, based on available information, FAO-WHO-WOAH assess the global public health risk of influenza A(H5) viruses to be low.
Receptor-binding specificity of a bovine influenza A virus
The receptor-binding preference of haemagglutinin of influenza A viruses (IAVs) is a major determinant of host range, and avian viruses preferentially bind α2,3-linked sialic acids, whereas human IAVs recognize α2,6-linked sialic acids.
Bovine H5N1 binds poorly to human-type sialic acid receptors
Highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza viruses started circulating in lactating dairy cattle in the USA at the end of 2023 and these viruses are now rapidly spreading between cows.