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[Classic fowl plague--a review]
1Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Bundesforschungsinstitut für Tiergesundheit, Insel Riems. ortrud.werner@fli.bund.de
Berliner Und Munchener Tierarztliche Wochenschrift
|April 1, 2006
Summary
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is a severe poultry disease caused by H5 or H7 virus strains. Recent outbreaks, including H5N1 in Southeast Asia, raise pandemic concerns and highlight migratory birds as potential spreaders.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Disease Ecology
Context:
- Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is a significant threat to global poultry health.
- Characterized by high mortality and rapid disease progression across all poultry species.
- Recent widespread outbreaks, particularly H5N1 in Southeast Asia since 2003, have increased concerns.
Purpose:
- To describe the characteristics of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
- To outline the etiological agents and their spontaneous mutation.
- To document the increasing incidence and geographical spread of HPAI.
Summary:
- HPAI is caused by avian influenza virus strains of subtypes H5 or H7, originating from spontaneous mutations in the HA gene.
- Poultry species, especially chickens and turkeys, are highly susceptible, with no pathognomonic symptoms.
- The disease has shown increasing losses and widespread occurrence since 2003, with H5N1 causing human fatalities and spreading westward.
Impact:
- The emergence and spread of HPAI, including H5N1, pose a substantial risk to poultry industries worldwide.
- Fatal human infections linked to HPAI strains have raised global health concerns regarding potential pandemic origins.
- Understanding the transmission dynamics, such as the role of migratory birds, is crucial for effective control strategies.