In June 2023, the Poland public well being officers notified the World Health Organization of surprising deaths in cats throughout the nation. Dozens had been discovered to be constructive for influenza A (H5N1). Fourteen cats are reported to have been euthanized, and an extra 11 died, with the final demise reported on 30 June. The supply of the publicity of cats to the virus is presently unknown and epizootic investigations are ongoing.
Sporadic an infection of cats with A(H5N1) has beforehand been reported, however that is the primary report of a excessive numbers of contaminated cats over a large geographical space inside a rustic.
Feline A/H5N1 infections elevate considerations that adaptation of avian viruses to cats—animals residing in shut contact with people, and searching birds—may characterize step one in the direction of potential human-to-human transmission of Highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs).
Nearly all mammalian strains belonging to clade 2.3.4.4b had been remoted inside final two to a few years, regardless that HPAI outbreaks have been occurring worldwide for over 20 years. The most believable rationalization for this case is that the clade 2.3.4.4b, with level mutations, is indicative of diversifications to mammalian hosts.
This case report offers the medical description, together with pathological, virological, and bacteriological outcomes of feline influenza A/H5N1 case, one of many collection noticed this summer season in Poland. The virus was characterised as belonging to the clade 2.3.4.4.b with mutations indicating a mammalian unfold.
The supply of the an infection for the investigated cat stays unknown. The most typical routes for cats to contract avian influenza virus seem like direct contact with contaminated birds, consumption of uncooked poultry merchandise, or searching wild birds. These components naturally put out of doors cats at increased danger.
While it’s unimaginable to regulate HPAI in wild birds, which function a cellular reservoir for IAV genes, cats on endemic areas ought to be prevented from going outdoor, searching, and feeding on uncooked meat.
A Fatal A/H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus Infection in a Cat in Poland. Microorganisms, 9 September 2023.
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