Transmission and pathogenicity in ferrets after experimental infection with HPAI clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 viruses.

ABSTRACT: A marked increase in the incidence of mortality amongst wild mammals attributed to infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b viruses was observed in Europe in 2021. Neurological signs and high viral antigen levels in the brain of infected wild mammals indicate that the HPAI H5N1 virus causes severe disease in mammals, but serological analysis suggests that infections may be more widespread, implying that some mammals could experience mild disease. The clinical manifestation and transmissibility of HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b viruses amongst mammals represent critical risk factors for potential zoonotic transmission to humans. This study examined the pathogenicity, viral tissue tropism and associated pathology of three HPAI H5N1 viruses in ferrets, which are a

SUBMITTER: Bordes L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12282323 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature