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Viral factors underlying the pandemic potential of influenza viruses

Gabriele Neumann1, Amie J Eisfeld1, Yoshihiro Kawaoka1,2,3,4

  • 1Department of Pathobiological Sciences, Influenza Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.

Microbiology and Molecular Biology Reviews : MMBR
|May 9, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Avian influenza A viruses increasingly infect mammals, with some strains now spreading via aerosols. This raises concerns about their potential pandemic risk and the mutations enabling mammal-to-mammal transmission.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Zoonotic Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Mammalian infections from avian influenza A viruses have risen over 25 years, causing mild to severe illness.
  • Historically, these viruses showed limited aerosol transmission between mammals in natural or experimental settings.
  • Recent findings indicate a shift, with certain avian influenza A viruses now exhibiting aerosol transmissibility in mammals.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current landscape of avian influenza A virus infections in mammals.
  • To discuss the genetic mutations facilitating efficient mammalian replication.
  • To explore the mechanisms behind aerosol transmission among mammals.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent studies on avian influenza A virus infections in mammals.
  • Analysis of genetic data related to viral adaptation for mammalian hosts.
  • Examination of experimental evidence for aerosol transmission.

Main Results:

  • Several avian influenza A virus strains have demonstrated aerosol transmissibility among mammals.
  • Specific mutations are identified as crucial for efficient viral replication in mammalian cells.
  • The emergence of aerosol-transmissible strains signifies an increased pandemic potential.

Conclusions:

  • Avian influenza A viruses are evolving towards greater mammalian adaptability.
  • Mutations enabling aerosol transmission are key factors in assessing pandemic risk.
  • Continued surveillance and research are vital to monitor and mitigate the threat of novel influenza viruses.
Keywords:
H5HANPPB2highly pathogenicinfluenza

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