H5N1 Virus Evolution in Europe-An Updated Overview
Giovanni Cattoli1, Alice Fusaro, Isabella Monne
1OIE, FAO and National Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy.
Viruses
|October 14, 2011
Summary
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) A/H5N1, primarily clade 2.2, has spread globally since 2003. This study details its evolution and molecular epidemiology in Europe.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Molecular Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) A/H5N1 emerged in 2003 and has since caused widespread outbreaks in poultry and wild birds across 62 countries.
- Europe has been significantly affected, with 24 countries reporting outbreaks of the virus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and update information on the evolution of HPAI A/H5N1 within the European continent.
- To analyze the molecular epidemiology of HPAI A/H5N1 in Europe, focusing on its spread and genetic characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Phylogenetic analysis of HPAI A/H5N1 strains.
- Gene migrational analysis to track virus movement and evolution.
- Review of existing epidemiological data on HPAI A/H5N1 in Europe.
Main Results:
- The westward spread of HPAI A/H5N1 from Asia to Europe, the Middle East, and Africa was predominantly driven by a single genetic clade: clade 2.2.
- Detailed phylogenetic and gene flow analyses provide insights into the specific evolutionary pathways and migration patterns of HPAI A/H5N1 within Europe.
Conclusions:
- Clade 2.2 played a pivotal role in the extensive dissemination of HPAI A/H5N1 across Europe.
- Understanding the molecular epidemiology and evolutionary dynamics of HPAI A/H5N1 is crucial for effective disease control and prevention strategies in poultry and wild bird populations.
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