Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N8) Virus, Democratic Republic of the Congo, 2017

Emerg Infect Dis. 2018 Jul;24(7):1371-1374. doi: 10.3201/eid2407.172123.

Abstract

In 2017, highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N8) virus was detected in poultry in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Whole-genome phylogeny showed the virus clustered with H5N8 clade 2.3.4.4B strains from birds in central and southern Asia. Emergence of this virus in central Africa represents a threat for animal health and food security.

Keywords: Democratic Republic of the Congo; avian influenza A(H5N8); highly pathogenic avian influenza; influenza; respiratory infections; viruses.

Publication types

  • Historical Article
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chickens
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo / epidemiology
  • Ducks
  • Geography
  • History, 21st Century
  • Humans
  • Influenza A Virus, H5N8 Subtype* / classification
  • Influenza A Virus, H5N8 Subtype* / genetics
  • Influenza A Virus, H5N8 Subtype* / pathogenicity
  • Influenza in Birds / epidemiology*
  • Influenza in Birds / virology*
  • Influenza, Human / epidemiology
  • Influenza, Human / history
  • Influenza, Human / virology
  • Uganda / epidemiology