Could it spark the next pandemic?
A new study from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte warns that the H5N1 bird flu virus is evolving in ways that may increase its risk to humans. Researchers discovered that the virus, which has primarily affected birds and small mammals, is now spreading to larger mammals, including cattle. This shift raises concerns among scientists about the virus’s potential to infect humans more easily, as over 60 human cases have already been reported by the CDC.
The research team, using artificial intelligence tools developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, analyzed thousands of virus-antibody interactions. Their focus was on how the virus’s hemagglutinin (HA) proteins—critical for entering host cells—have changed. They found that newer strains of the virus are becoming better at evading the immune system, which means that previous infections or vaccines may offer less protection against the evolving virus.
One of the researchers, Colby Ford, pointed out that vaccines developed for earlier H5N1 strains may no longer be as effective due to the virus’s mutations. His colleague, Dan Janies, added that computational modeling allows them to quickly process vast amounts of data to monitor how the virus spreads and adapts to new hosts, including humans. This type of research, they say, is vital for staying ahead of potential outbreaks.
The study highlights a particular genetic change in the virus that enhances its ability to infect mammals and resist immune defenses. This discovery, along with the virus’s presence in livestock, raises the alarm that bird flu could become a more serious public health issue if it continues to adapt. Researchers emphasize the need for forward-looking studies to predict and prevent major health crises before they happen.
In summary, the rapid evolution of bird flu poses a growing threat due to its expanding host range and ability to bypass immune defenses. As it moves closer to human populations, scientists stress the importance of early surveillance, vaccine updates, and preparedness strategies to manage the risk.
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