National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune shared H5N1 genome sequence data with GISAID (Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data).

• Genome data sharing enables global tracking and helps in the timely development of public health responses.

About H5N1

• Type: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) virus.
• Virus Family: Orthomyxoviridae.Subtype: Influenza A virus (H5 hemagglutinin + N1 neuraminidase proteins).

History

• First detected: 1996 in geese in China.
• First human case: 1997, Hong Kong.

Transmission

• Primary: From infected birds (wild or domestic poultry) to humans.
• Human-to-human transmission: Extremely rare and inefficient.
• Routes:
  • Direct contact with infected birds or surfaces contaminated by their droppings.
  • Rarely via contaminated air (aerosols).

Mortality

• Human mortality rate: ~60% (depending on healthcare access and virus strain).
• High mortality in confirmed human cases compared to seasonal flu.

Vaccines & Treatment

• No widespread human vaccine available yet.
• Antiviral drugs like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) can be effective if administered early.

Concerns

• Potential for mutation to enable efficient human-to-human transmission.
• Risk of pandemic if genetic changes occur.