2023-09-12 12:10:34
Study Finds Bird Flu Virus Adapts Better to Humans, Raising Concerns
A recent study on the bird flu virus has revealed that it is evolving in a threatening direction, with mutations that make infections between humans more likely. The H3N8 bird flu virus, which is widespread in poultry flocks in China, has shown the ability to successfully reproduce in human cells from the bronchi and lungs.
According to the German Press Agency (dpa), researchers from the University of Nottingham investigated the potential dangers of the H3N8 virus, which has caused a fatal infection in a person in China. The H3N8 virus differs from the subtype H5N1, which is currently rampant among wild birds and poultry worldwide.
While the transmission from person to person is currently not possible, the researchers wanted to understand the extent to which the virus could be dangerous. They conducted experiments using two virus strains isolated from humans infected with H3N8, as well as other strains isolated from sick chickens. The H3N2 flu virus, which is common among people in Europe and North America, was also included for comparison.
The results of the experiments showed that the H3N8 viruses isolated from humans reproduced significantly better in human cells compared to those found in chickens. The researchers also conducted experiments with ferrets and found that one of the H3N8 viruses isolated from humans could be transmitted through droplet infection, while the other could only be transmitted through direct contact. The viruses found in chickens, however, were not transmitted from ferret to ferret.
Further analysis showed that the H3N8 viruses isolated from humans had two special mutations in their viral genome. One mutation allowed the virus to dock with human receptors and enter cells, while the other mutation helped the viruses multiply.
“The emergence of such a human-adapted H3N8 virus has the potential to spread easily in the human population,” warned the researchers.
It is important to note that vaccination against the H3N2 flu virus does not provide protection against H3N8. The researchers did find some good news, as the H3N8 virus has not yet developed acid resistance, which is necessary for effective transmission between people.
However, the researchers emphasized the need to monitor any changes in the acid resistance of the novel H3N8 virus.
The study’s findings highlight the importance of continued monitoring and research into the bird flu virus’s adaptation to humans. Efforts to prevent and control outbreaks of bird flu in poultry flocks are also crucial in preventing potential transmission to humans.
Source: German Press Agency (dpa), specialist journal Cell]
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