Genetically Different Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Viruses in West Africa, 2015

Emerg Infect Dis. 2016 Dec;22(12):2132-2136. doi: 10.3201/eid2212.160578. Epub 2016 Dec 15.

Abstract

To trace the evolution of highly pathogenic influenza A(H5N1) virus in West Africa, we sequenced genomes of 43 viruses collected during 2015 from poultry and wild birds in 5 countries. We found 2 co-circulating genetic groups within clade 2.3.2.1c. Mutations that may increase adaptation to mammals raise concern over possible risk for humans.

Keywords: Africa; H5N1 subtype; HPAI; Influenza A virus; West Africa; genetic groups; highly pathogenic avian influenza; phylogeny; respiratory infections; viruses.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study

MeSH terms

  • Africa, Western / epidemiology
  • Animals
  • Genetic Variation*
  • Genome, Viral
  • Hemagglutinin Glycoproteins, Influenza Virus / genetics
  • Humans
  • Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype / classification
  • Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype / genetics*
  • Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype / pathogenicity
  • Influenza in Birds / epidemiology*
  • Influenza in Birds / virology*
  • Mutation
  • Phylogeny
  • Poultry / virology*
  • Virulence
  • Whole Genome Sequencing

Substances

  • Hemagglutinin Glycoproteins, Influenza Virus