A mutation dangerous to humans has been identified in the bird flu virus

Chinese and British scientists have identified a dangerous mutation in the bird flu virus that increases the risk of transmission to humans. The results of the study were published in the journal Cell.

The work examined a subtype of avian influenza virus endemic in poultry farms in CHINA, H3N8 (AIV). In an experiment on laboratory mice and ferrets, the authors found that the virus made adaptive changes that caused severe infections in mammals. In particular, the virus has acquired the ability to bind to human receptors and the amino acid substitution PB2-E627K, necessary for airborne transmission. Such infection leads to acute respiratory distress syndrome and can ultimately cause death.

The researchers emphasize that their discovery demonstrates the potential danger of an impending epidemic or pandemic. Therefore, new studies are needed to monitor such viruses in poultry and humans.

However, the virus studied does not have one important quality for transmission to new mammals and people - acid resistance. it is this factor that specialists should pay special attention to in future work.

In June 2023, staff from St. Jude Children's Hospital ( usa ) and WHO announced the rapid evolution of the H5N1 avian influenza virus around the world.