Genetic Characterization and Pathogenesis of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus A (H5N1) Isolated in Egypt During 2021-2023.

ABSTRACT: Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses have recently had a substantial impact on global poultry production and public health. In Egypt, clade 2.3.4.4b HPAI H5N1 viruses were first isolated from wild birds in 2021 and then became dominant in domestic poultry. In this study, we aimed to genetically characterize the H5N1 viruses isolated in Egypt during 2021-2023 and examine the pathogenicity and transmissibility of two H5N1 strains isolated from wild and domestic poultry in chickens. We collected 7588 specimens from live bird markets including poultry, wild birds, and environmental samples. Influenza A viruses were detected in 20.94% (484/2311) of tested samples, and 17 isolates were identified as H5N1 through complete genome sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all H5N1

SUBMITTER: Kamel MN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12568289 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature