Showing posts with label cats. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cats. Show all posts

Monday, April 27, 2026

Evaluation of Cross-Immunogenicity of #Ferret #Antisera Following Immunization with #H5N1 #Vaccine Strains

 


Abstract

Background

Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 viruses of clade 2.3.4.4b have spread globally since 2021, causing extensive outbreaks in avian populations and repeated spillovers into diverse mammalian hosts, including humans. These cross-species transmission events highlight ongoing pandemic risks and underscore the need for vaccine strategies that reflect viral evolution at the human–animal interface. Despite the availability of licensed H5 vaccines and newly recommended World Health Organization (WHO) candidate vaccine viruses (CVVs), the extent to which these vaccines elicit cross-reactive antibody responses against contemporary clade 2.3.4.4b viruses, including mammalian spillover isolates of avian origin, remains incompletely characterized

Method

In this study, ferret antisera were generated using four WHO-recommended H5 CVVs, including a clade 1 strain (A/Vietnam/1194/2004) and three clade 2.3.4.4b strains (A/Astrakhan/3212/2020, A/American wigeon/South Carolina/22-000345-001/2021, and A/Ezo red fox/Hokkaido/1/2022), formulated with alum adjuvant to reflect licensed vaccine formulation used in national preparedness programs. Antibody responses and cross-reactive activity were evaluated using hemagglutination inhibition (HI) and microneutralization (MN) assays against homologous vaccine strains and a feline-origin clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 field isolate from Korea, A/Feline/Korea/SNU-01/2023. 

Results

Antisera induced by clade 2.3.4.4b CVVs showed cross-reactive antibody responses against homologous and heterologous clade 2.3.4.4b viruses and demonstrated measurable HI and MN responses against the feline-origin field isolate. In contrast, antisera raised against the clade 1 Vietnam CVV exhibited limited cross-reactivity against clade 2.3.4.4b viruses. Overall, clade 2.3.4.4b CVVs generally showed higher antibody responses than the clade 1 vaccine strain across multiple panels. 

Conclusions

These findings provide descriptive insights into antigenic differences between clade 1 and clade 2.3.4.4b viruses and support the antigenic relevance of clade 2.3.4.4b CVVs for contemporary H5N1 strains. This study highlights the importance of ongoing antigenic evaluation to inform vaccine strain selection within a One Health framework.

Source: 


Link: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-393X/14/4/301

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Monday, April 20, 2026

#Outdoor roaming of owned #cats elevates #risk of zoonotic #pathogen #exposure: A global synthesis

 


Abstract

Domestic animals play a central role in pathogen transmission at the human–wildlife interface. Domestic cats, in particular, are uniquely consequential in disease spillover dynamics due to their global distribution, large, human-subsidized free-roaming populations, and high contact rate with humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. However, the extent to which human ownership and management mitigate this spillover risk remains a key knowledge gap. To address this gap, we conducted a global systematic review and quantitative synthesis of the prevalence and diversity of zoonotic pathogens in indoor-only, outdoor-owned (roaming unsupervised), and unowned (feral or stray) cats. Our dataset comprised 174,064 individuals from 88 countries, representing 124 pathogen species, 97 of which are zoonotic. Using generalized linear models within a Bayesian framework and rarefaction analyses, we show that ownership provides limited protection against zoonoses when owned cats have unsupervised outdoor access. Outdoor-owned cats were 3–5 times more likely to carry zoonotic pathogens than indoor-only cats, and, notably, had infection odds statistically equivalent to those of feral cats, despite receiving presumed veterinary care and feeding. Feral cats carried the highest pathogen diversity, however, outdoor-owned cats still harbour 1.5 times the helminth richness of indoor cats, highlighting their potential as effective bridges for pathogen spillover. With approximately 62% of owned cats roaming freely worldwide, and rates exceeding 90% in some regions, these findings reveal a major yet overlooked route of zoonotic risk. Public health and One Health frameworks have traditionally focused on feral cats; however, our results highlight the need to explicitly incorporate owned outdoor cats into zoonotic disease prevention strategies by restricting unsupervised roaming and promoting responsible ownership practices. Without such integration, current frameworks risk overlooking a pervasive and preventable pathway for pathogen transmission at the human–wildlife–domestic animal interface.

Source: 


Link: https://journals.plos.org/plospathogens/article?id=10.1371/journal.ppat.1014160

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Friday, February 27, 2026

The #ORF6 accessory #protein contributes to #SARS-CoV-2 #virulence and pathogenicity in the naturally susceptible #feline model of infection

 


ABSTRACT

In this study, the infection dynamics, replication, and pathogenicity of a recombinant virus containing a deletion of ORF6 (rWA1ΔORF6) on the backbone of the highly virulent SARS-CoV-2 WA1 virus (rWA1) were investigated and compared to the parental rWA1 virus. While both rWA1 and rWA1ΔORF6 viruses replicated efficiently in cultured cells, the rWA1ΔORF6 virus produced smaller plaques, suggesting reduced cell-to-cell spread. Luciferase reporter assays revealed immune-suppressing effects of ORF6 on interferon (IFN) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways. Pathogenesis assessment in cats revealed that animals inoculated with rWA1 were lethargic and presented with fever on days 2 and 4 post-infection (pi), whereas rWA1ΔORF6-inoculated animals developed subclinical infection. Additionally, animals inoculated with rWA1ΔORF6 presented reduced infectious virus shedding in nasal and oral secretions and broncho-alveolar lavage fluid when compared with the rWA1-inoculated cats. Similarly, the rWA1ΔORF6-inoculated cats presented reduced virus replication in the respiratory tract as evidenced by lower viral loads and reduced lung inflammation on days 3 and 5 pi when compared to rWA1-inoculated animals. Host gene transcriptomic analysis revealed distinct differentially expressed gene (DEG) profiles in the nasal turbinate of animals infected with rWA1 when compared to rWA1ΔORF6. Importantly, type I IFN signaling was significantly upregulated in rWA1ΔORF6-infected cats when compared to rWA1-inoculated animals, which could potentially contribute to the reduced replication of rWA1ΔORF6 in the upper and lower respiratory tracts of infected animals. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the SARS-CoV-2 ORF6 is an important virulence determinant of the virus, contributing to the modulation of host antiviral immune responses.

Source: Journal of Virology, https://journals.asm.org/journal/jvi

Link: https://journals.asm.org/doi/full/10.1128/jvi.00644-25?af=R

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Monday, February 23, 2026

Hematogenous #neuroinvasion and genotype-dependent #transmission of #influenza A #H5N1 viruses in the #cat host

 


Abstract

The spillover of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A H5N1 virus to mammalian hosts raises major concerns due to its pandemic potential. Cats are frequently affected mammals, often succumbing to systemic and neurological disease. Here, we characterized the pathogenesis and transmissibility of two H5N1 genotypes, B3.13 and D1.1, in cats. Infected cats exhibited high-level viremia and virus shedding in nasal, oral, and fecal secretions were consistently detected. The virus replicated initially in the upper respiratory tract and lungs, followed by systemic dissemination and neuroinvasion. Notably, the virus crossed the blood-brain-barrier by infecting endothelial cells, spreading to astrocytes and neurons, causing multifocal encephalitis. D1.1-virus infection caused protracted disease with lower shedding and no transmissibility, whereas B3.13 virus caused rapid onset with efficient shedding and transmission. These findings reveal critical H5N1 neuropathogenesis mechanisms and highlight mammalian transmission potential in a species with close human contact.


Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Source: 


Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.02.21.707182v1

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Saturday, January 24, 2026

#Netherlands: #Antibodies to {#H5N1} #birdflu virus found in dairy #cow (Min. Agriculture, Jan. 24 '26)




{Automatic translation from Dutch to English}


Date: January 23, 2026 

Regarding: Dairy cow with antibodies against bird flu 


Dear Chair, Through this letter, I am informing the House, also on behalf of the Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport, about the situation surrounding a dairy cow with antibodies against bird flu (highly pathogenic avian influenza, HPAI). 

No evidence has been found of active virus circulation of bird flu among the dairy cows on this farm in the municipality of Noardeast-Fryslân (province of Friesland). 

There are also no signs of bird flu spreading at other dairy farms

I am currently conducting follow-up investigations and have asked all involved parties to be alert to any potential signs. 


Situation

The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) received a report on December 24, 2025, about two sick cats

One of these cats tested positive for bird flu. 

The cat in question died on December 26, 2025. 

The second cat tested negative and has fully recovered. 

I informed your House of this in my letter of January 13th, including Parliamentary Document 28807, no. 322. 

Following this report, the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) conducted source and contact tracing. 

This revealed a relevant contact with a dairy farm; the cat in question originated from this dairy farm. 

On January 15th, the dairy cattle on this farm were screened. 

Milk samples were taken from several of the cows present, and a sample was also taken from the bulk milk

At the time of sampling, no animals showing symptoms of the disease were present on the farm. 

The samples were sent to Wageningen Bioveterinary Research (WBVR) for analysis. 

The results of the PCR tests, which can detect the virus in milk, were negative for both the individual samples and the bulk milk sample. 

This confirmed that no virus was present among the dairy cattle on the farm. 

In addition, the samples were tested for the presence of antibodies

On January 20, the WBVR reported that one cow had antibodies to H5N1 avian influenza

The presence of antibodies indicates a previous infection with the virus. 

The cow in question had suffered from mastitis and respiratory problems in December. 

These are Symptoms that can be observed in a dairy cow infected with avian influenza. 

At the time of sampling, this cow had recovered. 

Following this positive antibody test, the NVWA (Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority) revisited the farm on January 22nd. 

During this visit, blood and milk samples were taken from all cattle present. 

A bulk milk sample was also taken again. 

Today, January 23rd, 2026, the PCR results from these tests were received. 

All but five samples were negative

The bulk milk was also PCR negative

The five remaining individual milk samples resulted in a test error in the laboratory and will be retested this weekend. 

Based on the PCR results known so far, from last week and today, there is no indication of active circulation of avian influenza virus among the dairy cattle on the farm. 

The five final PCR results will be available this weekend. 

If a positive result is unexpectedly obtained, I will inform Parliament immediately. 

In addition, the results of the antibody testing will follow later next week. 

Antibody testing is important to determine whether more animals have been exposed to the virus, which could indicate past virus circulation. 

Other mammals on the farm (such as dogs, cats, and horses) are currently showing no symptoms


Avian influenza in dairy cattle

As far as we know, antibodies against avian influenza have not previously been demonstrated in dairy cattle in Europe

However, since March 2024, there have been numerous avian influenza outbreaks among dairy cattle in the United States (Parliamentary Document 28807, No. 298). 

The virus causing these outbreaks in dairy cattle in America has not been found in Europe to our knowledge. 

The symptoms exhibited by cows with avian influenza are primarily reduced milk production, fever, loss of appetite, and thick, discolored milk. 

The avian influenza virus is primarily excreted in cows' milk. 

Most dairy cows recover from infection and eventually return to their previous milk production levels. 

It is also possible for a cow infected with avian influenza to show no symptoms; even in that case, the cow often sheds the virus. 

An infected cow sheds infectious virus for about two weeks after infection. 

These symptoms are based on experiences in the US.1 

In response to the large number of avian influenza outbreaks among dairy cows in the US, a policy manual for HPAI in dairy cows2 was developed in early 2025. 


Milk Safety 

Previously, the NVWA's Bureau for Risk Assessment and Research (BuRO) conducted research at the request of the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS) into the management of food and feed safety risks of HPAI virus in milk3. 

In this research It is confirmed that pasteurizing milk completely inactivates the avian influenza virus present. 

The milk is then safe for human consumption and poses no risk to public health or the spread of the virus. 

It is important that raw milk and raw-milk dairy products from cows infected with avian influenza are not consumed


Monitoring dairy cattle

Individual infection of a dairy cow with the avian influenza virus can occur. 

It is important to know whether this leads to spread within and between farms. 

There are currently no indications that this is the case. 

The basic animal health monitoring program conducts a so-called syndrome surveillance, which involves weekly national and regional monitoring of bulk milk deliveries to determine whether there are any animal health problems in dairy cattle. 

This is a sensitive tool that is particularly valuable when new conditions arise that do not produce specific or noticeable symptoms. 

In addition, the basic monitoring program utilizes pathological examination, and unexplained problems can be reported to the Veekijker (cattle watcher). 

This also makes it possible to identify individual suspected cases of avian influenza infection. 

To date, the basic monitoring has not found any indications that suggest avian influenza infection in dairy cows. 

Naturally, I am closely monitoring the situation and have asked all stakeholders to do so. 

In the short term, I will ask the experts to provide a risk assessment. 

I will also ask experts to analyze possible infection routes and to assess the effectiveness of the monitoring options for HPAI in cattle. 

Furthermore, I have informed stakeholders about this new situation and asked them to report any notable findings. 


Public Health Risk

Based on the currently available data, the RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment) estimates the risk to public health to be very low

Because the other cows on the farm also tested negative in the PCR test, it seems unlikely that the virus could have spread from the cow to the other cows. 

Due to the cat that previously tested positive near the farm, individuals working or living on the farm were already known to the Municipal Health Service (GGD). 

These individuals have not shown any symptoms consistent with (avian) influenza since then. 

To be on the safe side, all persons exposed to the cow will still be offered testing for an active or past infection. 

Milk on this farm is used only for pasteurized products, meaning any virus present is inactivated and poses no risk of external contamination. 

Furthermore, the milk from the previously infected cow was not processed for human consumption due to the existing mastitis pattern. 

Therefore, the chance that virus from the infected cow has ended up in the milk for human consumption is very small. 

Given the new situation, the RIVM will soon organize a Zoonosis Response Team (RT-Z) in line with the existing zoonosis structure, in which Experts from human and veterinary health will conduct a risk assessment based on the new situation and share it online. 

Finally, the avian influenza situation in our country remains worrying

Unfortunately, outbreaks have occurred in recent weeks on both commercial poultry farms and hobby farms. 

Wild birds are also regularly found with avian influenza. 

The fact that a dairy cow has been infected with the avian influenza virus is therefore consistent with these times of high infection pressure. 

Nevertheless, this is a worrying development. I will therefore continue to closely monitor this situation and will conduct further research. I will inform you, together with the Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport, of relevant developments regarding avian influenza and this case. 

Sincerely, Femke Marije Wiersma, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature

Source: 


Links: Press Release, https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/onderwerpen/vogelgriep/nieuws/2026/01/23/antistoffen-vogelgriepvirus-gevonden-bij-melkkoe ; Parliamentary Document: https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/onderwerpen/vogelgriep/documenten/kamerstukken/2026/01/23/melkkoe-met-antistoffen-tegen-vogelgriep

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Monday, January 12, 2026

Novel recombinant H5-based #vaccine provides effective protection against #H5N1 #influenza virus in #cats

 


Abstract

The emergence and broad circulation of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus in wild birds and its spillover into dairy cows with sustained transmission in this species pose a major risk to felines, which are highly susceptible and often succumb to the infection. Here, we developed a novel recombinant hemagglutinin H5-based vaccine and evaluated its safety, immunogenicity, and protective efficacy against HPAI H5N1 virus in domestic cats. Immunization of cats with H5-vaccine candidate elicited robust levels of neutralizing antibodies against H5N1 virus and protection against disease, mortality, and infection upon H5N1 virus challenge. The vaccine-elicited immunity significantly reduced virus shedding and viremia, limiting systemic spread and disease severity in immunized animals. Importantly, beyond protecting susceptible felids, vaccinating cats against the H5N1 virus could also reduce the risk of human exposure - underscoring the One Health impact of implementing such a vaccination strategy in feline populations.

Source: 


Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41541-025-01369-6

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Saturday, December 20, 2025

#Cats infected with #H5N1 avian #influenza – a new infectious disease in #Poland

 


Abstract

Avian influenza virus (AIV) infections in cats are a new and not fully understood  problem in Poland. These infections have drawn the attention of both veterinarians  and human medical practitioners, mainly because of their zoonotic  potential, i.e. possible spreading to humans and other mammals. In wild felids as  well as in domestic cats, AIV can cause severe infections, often ending in death.  Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) and low pathogenic avian influenza virus (LPAIV) have been identified, with the recent H5N1 (2.3.4.4b  clade) outbreak affecting poultry, wild birds and carnivores.  Transmission likely occurs through contact with infected birds, their excretions or  contaminated raw poultry, while cat-to-cat transmission remains unconfirmed.  First reported in Thailand in 2003, H5N1 infections in cats have since occurred in  multiple countries. In Poland, 25 confirmed cases were identified in June 2023,  with genetic sequencing linking the virus to strains detected in local wild birds.  The virus primarily replicates in the lower respiratory tract, spreading via viremia  or nerve fibers, causing multi-organ failure. While avian influenza in cats is severe  and often fatal, it should not yet be considered an epidemic. Further  interdisciplinary research is essential to clarify transmission routes and assess the  zoonotic risk. Additionally, differential diagnosis should include rabies, which presents similar neurological symptoms and remains a critical public health  concern. This article presents the current knowledge of H5N1 virus infection in  cats, especially the possible routes for its spreading, the current epizootic  situation of the disease around the world, its pathogenesis, clinical course and  methods of diagnosis.

Source: 


Link: https://journals.pan.pl/dlibra/publication/157284/edition/137625/content

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Thursday, December 4, 2025

#Germany, #Birdflu in #Brandenburg: #Cats infected with avian #influenza – warning from the district (Tagesspiegel, Dec. 4 '25)



{Excerpt}

Several cats in Neuruppin have been infected with avian influenza, according to the Ostprignitz-Ruppin district administration. They have been taken into the care of the Office for Consumer Protection and Agriculture, the district announced. A cat infected with the H5N1 strain of the avian influenza virus was found dead in a wooded area near the town. Several media outlets have reported on this. 

(...)

Source: 


Link: https://www.tagesspiegel.de/berlin/vogelgrippe-in-brandenburg-katzen-mit-geflugelpest-infiziert--warnung-vom-kreis-15014940.html

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Wednesday, December 3, 2025

#Mammalian #adaptation and zoonotic #risk of #influenza A viruses in companion #animals

 


Abstract

Importance

Since the early 2000s, companion animals emerged as unexpected players in influenza A virus ecology. Canine influenza viruses and the increasing detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses in cats have raised concerns about their potential role as intermediate hosts for pandemic emergence. Their unique position at human-animal interface creates unprecedented opportunities for viral evolution and bidirectional transmission between humans and animals.

Observations

This review examined the transmission pathways and molecular adaptations of influenza A virus in companion animals. Cats primarily acquire infections through alimentary routes, including consumption of raw poultry and unpasteurized milk, as well as environmental exposure through hunting. Dogs transmit influenza viruses via respiratory droplets in high-density settings such as shelters and kennels. Canine influenza viruses demonstrate successful mammalian adaptation through accumulated mutations across multiple viral proteins, particularly in polymerase and hemagglutinin genes, enabling sustained dog-to-dog transmission. Feline isolates consistently exhibit mammalian adaptive mutations across geographically disparate outbreaks. Several molecular changes appear convergently in both species, suggesting shared evolutionary pressures at companion animal-human interface.

Conclusions and Relevance

Despite molecular evidence of active viral evolution, companion animals currently pose a limited pandemic risk owing to no sustained zoonotic transmission chains. Critical knowledge gaps remain regarding subclinical infection frequency, natural transmission efficiency, and host genetic factors that influence susceptibility. Surveillance should prioritize high-risk interfaces, including raw pet food supply chains and veterinary facilities, while maintaining the perspective of actual versus theoretical risks. Understanding companion animal influenza virus dynamics is essential for comprehensive pandemic preparedness strategies.

Source: 


Link: https://vetsci.org/DOIx.php?id=10.4142/jvs.25153

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The #Netherlands confirms its first #death from avian #influenza #H5N1 in a #cat (Xinhua, Dec. 3 '25)

 


The Hague, December 2 (Xinhua) 

Dutch Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Safety and Nature, Femke Wilsma, reported on December 1 that the country had confirmed its first death from the H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza virus.

In a letter to the House of Representatives that day, Wilsma stated that the Institute of Biological Veterinary Medicine at Wageningen University had recently reported that a kitten at a goat farm tested positive for the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus

The kitten was found dead by its owner. 

The remaining seven kittens from the same litter also died after being given to other new owners, suggesting that they may have also been infected with the avian influenza virus, but the specific route of infection is still uncertain.

The letter stated that, according to the cat owner, the mother cat had brought back a dead wild bird, which was suspected to have carried the avian influenza virus, and the kittens were infected after eating the carcass. 

The health expert team also tested the goats and adult cats on the farm, but no avian influenza virus was found.

The letter stated that France and other countries had previously reported cases of cats dying from avian influenza. 

The Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment has raised the risk level for those working with infected animals from "low and moderate" to "moderate," while the risk of the general public in the Netherlands contracting avian influenza remains "very low."

The avian influenza situation in the Netherlands is currently quite serious. In October, the Dutch government announced nationwide measures to confine and isolate poultry, and imposed a transportation ban within a 10-kilometer radius of the outbreak site, prohibiting the transport of poultry, hatching eggs, edible eggs, poultry manure, used bedding, and other animals and animal products from farms within that area.

Source: 


Link: https://baijiahao.baidu.com/s?id=1850474963029153898&wfr=spider&for=pc

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Monday, September 29, 2025

Highly Pathogenic Avian #Influenza #H5N1 in Raw #Pet #Foods and #Milk: A Growing #Threat to both Companion Animals and #Human #Health, and Potential Raw Pet Food Industry Liability

 


Highlights

• Raw pet foods and raw milk are emerging sources of H5N1 in pets.

• Cats are more severely infected with H5N1 when compared to dogs.

• H5N1 persistence in mammals indicate adaptive variants with increased zoonotic potential.

• No reported pet-to-human transmission of H5N1 has been reported.

• FDA now requires RMBD makers who are covered under FSMA to assess HPAI risk.


Abstract

The increasing popularity of raw meat-based diets (RMBDs) and raw milk feeding in companion animals presents a growing concern for zoonotic disease transmission. Recent evidence has demonstrated that these products can serve as vehicles for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, an emergent viral threat with a host range from birds, dairy cattle, and pets to humans. Since the emergence of clade 2.3.4.4b in 2020, HPAI H5N1 has caused widespread outbreaks in poultry, wild birds, and mammals, including dairy cattle and cats. Transmission to pets has been linked to ingestion of contaminated raw pet food and unpasteurized milk. Notably, multiple outbreaks in cats across Europe, Asia, and North America have been associated with raw pet food products, while recent U.S. cases confirm direct viral transmission from infected pet food, raw milk, and colostrum. Experimental studies have also supported the plausibility of gastrointestinal and respiratory routes of infection in cats and dogs, with felines appearing particularly susceptible, often exhibiting severe clinical disease and high mortality. A number of documented recalls of H5N1-contaminated raw pet food and raw milk in the US underscore the persistence of infectious viruses in cold-stored food products and highlight the risks of feeding raw diets. Although pet-to-human transmission of the HPAI H5N1 virus has not been reported yet, cat-to-human transmission of the H7N2 influenza virus has been reported in the USA. This review presents current evidence on H5N1 in RMBDs and raw milk, its epidemiology in companion animals, outbreaks, and the health implications among pets and humans. By raising awareness among pet owners, industry stakeholders, and veterinarians, this paper highlights the immediate need for stringent surveillance and improved biosecurity in raw food supply chains to minimize viral transmission risks thereby safeguarding pet health and curb the potential spillover to humans.

Source: Journal of Food Protection, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0362028X25001802?via%3Dihub

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Sunday, August 10, 2025

Companion #animals and #H5N1 highly pathogenic avian #influenza: cause for #concern?



Abstract

The first known human infection with a highly pathogenic H5N1 influenza A virus appeared in China in 1997. Between 2003 and 2017, the WHO documented an additional 862 human cases, mainly from southeast Asia and Egypt, with a mean annual case fatality rate of 56%. By 2006, the susceptibility of cats to severe respiratory and neurologic disease became apparent. Scientists raised concerns regarding the potential for domestic cats to transmit novel pathogenic strains to humans. But after 2006, reports of new H5N1 infections in companion animals dwindled, and human cases fell after 2016. In 2021, H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b viruses suddenly appeared in Europe and spread rapidly to the Americas, wreaking havoc on wildlife and crippling the poultry and dairy industries. Between 2022 and 2025, dozens of domestic cats died, most often following raw food consumption. Unease regarding the transmission potential of pets resurfaced. Although most human infections in the Americas were mild and associated with poultry or dairy contact, the recent detection of genotype D1.1 in association with severe illness or death is cause for concern. Genotype D1.1 has now also been detected in dairy cattle and domestic cats. Reports of H5N1 clade 2.3.2.1a viruses in India suggest a new potential threat. Successful control of H5N1 infections is strongly dependent on a One Health approach. Small animal veterinarians play a key role in this approach through recognition of cases and education of pet owners, thus preserving the human-animal bond.

Source: Journal of American Veterinary Medicine Association, https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/aop/javma.25.06.0388/javma.25.06.0388.xml?tab_body=abstract

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Monday, July 28, 2025

Updated joint #FAO / #WHO / #WOAH public #health #assessment of recent #influenza #H5 virus #events in animals and people (July 28 '25)

 


Key points 

-- At the present time, based on available information, FAO-WHO-WOAH assess the global public health risk of influenza A(H5) viruses to be low, while the risk of infection for occupationally or frequently exposed (e.g., with backyard poultry) persons is low to moderate depending on the risk mitigation and hygiene measures in place and the local avian influenza epidemiological situation. 

-- Transmission between animals continues to occur and, to date, a growing yet still limited number of human infections are being reported. Although additional human infections associated with exposure to infected animals or contaminated environments are expected to occur, the overall public health impact of such infections at a global level, at the present time, is considered minor. The assessment could change if and when additional epidemiological or virological information becomes available. 

-- This risk assessment from FAO, WHO and WOAH updates the assessment of the risk of zoonotic transmission (for example, animal to human) considering additional information made available since the previous assessment of 17 April 2025. 

-- This update is limited to the inclusion of additional information being made available globally. 

-- Due to the potential risk to human health and the far-reaching implications of the disease on the health of wild birds, poultry, livestock and other animal populations, timely notification to global authorities and the use of a One Health approach are essential to: 

- tackle avian influenza effectively, 

- to monitor and characterize virus circulation, 

- to prevent transmission within species and to new species 

- to reduce spread among animals, and 

- to prevent human infections from exposure to animals. 


Infections in animals 

-- To date, H5 avian influenza viruses have been detected in birds and/or mammals across all continents except Oceania. 

-- The predominant H5 virus clades currently circulating worldwide include clades 2.3.2.1 and 2.3.4.4. 

-- Between 1 March and 1 July 2025, an additional 807 A(H5N1) outbreaks in animals (including bird and mammal species) have been reported to WOAH. 

-- Of these, 268 outbreaks occurred in poultry (of any farming system), 389 outbreaks in wild bird and 92 outbreaks occurred in mammalian species. 

-- In Cambodia, 9 out of 14 outbreaks in poultry occurred in the vicinity of reported human cases. 


H5 clade 2.3.2.1 viruses 

-- Since 1 March 2025, clade 2.3.2.1a and 2.3.2.1e (previously classified as a 2.3.2.1c1) viruses have been detected in poultry in Bangladesh and Cambodia, respectively. 

-- Influenza A(H5N1) infections in felids were reported in January 2025 in a wildlife rescue centre in Maharashtra State, India, causing the death of one leopard and three tigers.{2} 

-- Influenza A(H5N1) clade 2.3.2.1a infections were reported in domestic cats and in samples from a live bird market in January 2025 in Madhya Pradesh, India.{3} 

-- The viruses were closely related to A/Victoria/149/2024, a sample identified in a traveller from India to Australia in 2024, which was characterized as a previously unreported reassortant virus consisting of clade 2.3.2.1a, 2.3.4.4b, and wild bird low pathogenicity avian influenza gene segments.{4} 

-- In April 2025, influenza A(H5N1) infections were reported in two captive Serval cats (Leptailurus serval) in Dhaka Division, Bangladesh.{5}   

-- Influenza A(H5N1) outbreaks observed in captive felines in Thailand during 2003-2004 were characterized by severe pneumonia and high mortality and have been associated with the feeding of infected poultry and likely tiger-to-tiger transmission.{6,7} 


H5 clade 2.3.4.4b viruses 

-- Detections of A(H5) in mammals and wild and domestic birds continue to be reported in many countries worldwide. 

-- Clade 2.3.4.4b A(H5) viruses are circulating in wild and domestic birds, have been involved in multiple spillover events affecting wild carnivorous and marine mammals as well as domestic cats and dogs

-- Clade 2.3.4.4b virus infections reported in mammals in the Americas, Asia and Europe have resulted in severe clinical presentation (e.g., pneumonia, myocardial necrosis), with neurological signs (e.g., meningoencephalitis) in some species. {8, 9} 

-- Amino acid changes potentially associated with increased virulence, transmission, or adaptation to mammalian hosts have been sporadically identified.{10,11} 

-- In March 2024, a clade 2.3.4.4b influenza A(H5N1) virus of the B3.13 genotype was detected in unpasteurized milk samples and oropharyngeal swabs from dairy cattle for the first time in the United States of America (USA).{12,13} Since then, influenza A(H5N1) virus detections have continued to be reported through the testing of dairy cattle and bulk milk samples.{14} 

-- Analyses of virus sequence data from infected dairy cattle in the USA indicated that the detections in dairy herds until February 2025 were linked to a single wild bird-to-dairy cow transmission event of a B3.13 genotype clade 2.3.4.4b A(H5N1) virus that occurred in late 2023 or early 2024.{15} 

-- During January-February 2025, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) confirmed the detection of a genotype D1.1 H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b virus in dairy cattle in the states of Nevada and Arizona , representing two additional separate spillover events from birds to cattle.{16,17} The exact mode of the virus introductions into dairy cattle remains unclear.{18} 

-- The genotype D1.1 virus has been the most frequently detected H5N1 genotype across North America in 2025 and has affected wild birds, poultry and  mammals, including wild and domestic felids and a marine mammal

-- Presently, to our knowledge, viruses from the clade 2.3.4.4b A(H5N1) B3.13 and D1.1 genotypes  have not been detected outside of North America in field conditions.  

-- Between March 2024 and 1 July 2025, 1074 dairy cattle herds in 17 states of the USA have tested positive for A(H5N1). Since the last joint assessment of 17 April 2025, the number of H5N1 detections in dairy herds has significantly decreased despite a surge in the State of Idaho during the month of April.{19} 

-- The exact routes of transmission between dairy cattle, and the roles of viremia and protective immunity remain unclear. 

-- While virus shedding in milk seems to be consistently linked with clinical disease, viral RNA has also been found in respiratory and urine samples intermittently and earlier in infection. 

-- Also, while transmission to new herds has been linked with movement of lactating cows, in multiple instances herds without a link to recent movement of lactating cattle have been affected. Some results indicate seroconversion in non-lactating cattle.{20} 

-- Experimental intramammary infection and re-infection of lactating cows with an A(H5N1) B3.13 virus indicated that while the primary inoculation led to mastitis and viral shedding in milk, secondary inoculation in an unaffected quarter, following resolution of infection from the primary inoculation, resulted in neither clinical manifestations nor virus shedding in milk.{21} 

-- Further studies are needed to understand the continued transmission of A(H5N1) in dairy cattle.  

-- In 2025, over 70 confirmed cases of A(H5) infection were reported in domestic cats in the USA across 19 states. Many cases were presumably linked to raw food diets, exposure to dairy farms, or they occurred in indoor-only cats with unknown exposure routes. Infections frequently resulted in severe respiratory and neurological illness, with high mortality. Detections in other mammals continued to be reported as well.{22} 

-- On 11 February 2025, an outbreak in a mixed backyard flock (chickens, ducks and turkeys) in Chaco province, Argentina was reported to the Servicio Nacional de Sanidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria (SENASA). The SENASA reference laboratory deposited the sequences in GISAID database (EPI_ISL_19752381 and EPI_ISL_19823059–68). The phylogenies showed that the A(H5N1) viruses from Argentina collected in 2025 are triple reassortants; the genome resembles that of North American genotypes B3.6 and B3.13, but with the Eurasian PA segment replaced by one from South American low pathogenicity avian influenza viruses.{23} 

-- On 4th March 2025, A(H5N1) virus infection was confirmed in domestic cats on a poultry farm in Belgium. The cats showed severe disease and were euthanized. They were likely infected by consuming contaminated eggs or drinking infected water, although the precise transmission route remains unconfirmed.{24} 

-- On 24 March 2025, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) of the United Kingdom reported their first detection of influenza A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b virus in a milk sample from a single sheep in Yorkshire. The case was identified on a premises where high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) viruses had been confirmed in domestic birds in February 2025. This H5N1 virus is different from the ones being detected in dairy cattle in the US.{25} 

-- A(H5)-specific antibodies were also detected in multiple samples from the sheep who lived in close proximity to the infected poultry and on a premises likely heavily contaminated with the virus.{26}  

-- On 12 May (confirmed on 15 May) 2025, A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b viruses were detected on a commercial breeder farm in Montenegro, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Over 17,000 birds on the premises either died or were culled.  Subsequently, several suspected cases were reported, and H5 detections in wild birds were confirmed in several states. 

-- In May 2025, A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b viruses were detected in harbour seals and sea otters in Hokkaido, Japan, during investigations of their mortality. The viral sequences, including the hemagglutinin gene, were very similar or identical to clade 2.3.4.4b viruses detected in wild birds in the region, suggesting likely spillover from avian sources. 

-- For the latest information on avian influenza situation in animals worldwide, see the FAO Global Avian Influenza Viruses with Zoonotic Potential situation update and the WOAH situation reports on HPAI, as well as WOAH’s World Animal Health Information System. 


Detections in humans 

-- Since the last joint assessment of April 2025 and as of 1 July 2025, an additional 16 human cases of infection with A(H5N1) viruses have been detected. Of these, nine were detected in Cambodia, two were detected in Bangladesh and India, and single cases were detected in China, Mexico and Viet Nam

-- Of the nine cases detected in Cambodia, four died. The cases detected in India and Mexico were also fatal. All but two cases reported direct or indirect exposure to domestic birds. The source of infection of the case in Mexico was determined as likely indirect exposure to either domestic or wild birds and the exposure information for one case in India was not available. 

-- No human-tohuman transmission was suspected associated with these confirmed cases. 

-- The viruses from  the case in India and from both cases in Bangladesh belong to HA clade 2.3.2.1a viruses. Viruses from all the cases from Cambodia belong to clade 2.3.2.1e viruses. The viruses from the cases in China and Mexico belong to clade 2.3.4.4b viruses.  


Virus characteristics  

-- Regular monitoring and screening of viral sequences from birds has rarely found markers of mammalian adaptation in A(H5) viruses. Those that have been detected are mainly in the polymerase proteins of the virus. Sporadic mutations in polymerase proteins have been observed more frequently in viruses from mammals. 

-- Additional studies on A(H5N1) genotype B3.13 viruses indicate no differences in receptor binding (retaining a preference for binding to avian-like sialic acid receptors).{27} 

-- Some of the D1.1 genotype viruses detected in dairy cattle have the amino acid mutation D701N in the PB2 protein, which has been associated with increased polymerase activity in mammalian cells. 

-- As of 1 March 2025, this mutation has neither been observed in D1.1 viruses detected in wild birds nor in poultry. The virus from the patient in Wyoming infected with A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b genotype D1.1 had the E627K mutation in the PB2 protein which is associated with more efficient virus replication in mammalian cells.{28} This change has not been observed in any D1.1 viruses which have been detected in dairy cattle, but the E627K mutation has been found in some B3.13 viruses detected in dairy cows.  

-- Available virus sequences from human cases have shown some genetic markers that may reduce susceptibility to neuraminidase inhibitors (antiviral medicines such as oseltamivir) or endonuclease inhibitors (such as baloxavir marboxil). While these changes may reduce antiviral susceptibility in laboratory testing, the clinical impact of these genetic changes requires further studies.{29}  

-- Experimental studies with A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b viruses, including a B3.13 virus from the human case in Texas and a human case from Michigan, have shown variable transmission between ferrets  by direct contact, but no or inefficient transmission via respiratory droplets in most studies.{30,31,32,33,34,35,36}  

-- An unpublished study in ferrets done by the US CDC with a D1.1 A(H5N1) virus (A/Washington/239/2024) did not show transmission via respiratory droplets.{37} 

-- Currently circulating A(H5N1) viruses would need further genetic changes to gain the ability to spread efficiently among humans via respiratory droplets, consistent with the current level of risk to public health, which is low. 

-- Based on limited seroprevalence information available on A(H5) viruses, human population immunity against the HA of A(H5) viruses is expected to be minimal; human population immunity targeting the N1 neuraminidase is found to be present although the impact of this immunity is yet to be understood.{38} 

-- Experimental studies suggest prior A(H1N1) immunity reduced virus replication and disease severity of bovine-derived B3.13 genotype A(H5N1) virus in ferrets and that ferrets with this pre-existing immunity expressed A(H5N1) cross-reacting antibodies to the neuraminidase protein.{39} However, the effectiveness of quadrivalent seasonal influenza vaccine (QIV) against influenza A(H5N1) virus remains a speculation, as a recent study observed no cross-neutralisation of H5N1 viruses by sera from patients vaccinated against seasonal influenza with QIV.{40}  


Candidate vaccine viruses (CVV) 

-- The WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS), in collaboration with animal health partners (FAO, WOAH, OFFLU (Joint WOAH-FAO network of expertise on animal influenza) and others), continue to evaluate candidate vaccine viruses for pandemic preparedness purposes both bi-annually and on an ad hoc basis. 

-- Regular genetic and antigenic characterization of contemporary zoonotic influenza viruses are published here with the most recent update on A(H5) CVVs published in February 2025 following the WHO Consultation on the Composition of Influenza Virus Vaccines for Use in the 2025-2026 Northern Hemisphere Influenza Season.  

-- The majority of circulating clade 2.3.4.4b viruses reacted well to at least one of the post-infection ferret antisera raised against the existing CVVs. The majority of the clade 2.3.2.1e viruses characterized antigenically reacted well to ferret antisera raised against the existing and CVV proposed in September 2024. Clade 2.3.2.1a viruses detected recently in poultry and felines in India were not characterized antigenically but had HA genes similar to that of the A(H5N1) virus detected in a traveller returning to Australia from India. This virus reacted poorly with ferret antisera raised again available CVVs, thus a new clade 2.3.2.1a CVV was proposed. A new clade 2.3.4.4h CVV was also proposed due to the ongoing detections of this clade of viruses in poultry in China and continued genetic evolution leading to reduced reactivity to existing CVVs. The updated list of available zoonotic influenza candidate vaccine viruses (CVVs) which include A(H5N1) viruses and potency testing reagents is updated on the WHO website. 


Assessment of current public health risk posed by influenza A(H5N1) viruses{41} 

1. What is the global public health risk of additional human cases of infection with avian influenza A(H5) viruses? 

-- Despite the continued detections of A(H5) viruses in animals and continued human exposures to the virus at the human-animal-environment interface, there have been relatively few human infections reported to date.  Of the human cases of A(H5) detections reported since the beginning of 2021, the vast majority were infections in people associated with exposure to A(H5) viruses through direct or indirect contact with infected animals, or contaminated environments, such as live poultry markets or other premises with infected animals. Severity of illness has ranged from mild to fatal, with the majority of mild cases reported by the USA associated with exposure to infected dairy cattle. Thus far, among the cases, there has been no reported or identified human-to-human transmission through follow up epidemiologic, virologic and serologic investigations. Investigations for some of the cases continue. Current virologic and epidemiologic information indicates that these viruses remain avian influenza viruses without established adaptation to mammalian hosts and have not acquired the capacity for sustained transmission between humans.  The epidemiological situation changed in 2024 with the spread of A(H5) virus in the USA dairy cattle population following an initial spillover event from birds to dairy cattle in 2023/24 followed by two additional spillover events identified in 2025. Persons exposed to affected dairy cattle and other infected animals may be in prolonged and close contact with potentially contaminated surfaces and animal products. As long as A(H5) viruses continue to be detected in wild and domestic birds and mammals, including dairy cattle, and related environments, including in unpasteurized/raw milk, further human cases are expected, particularly amongst exposed individuals not wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and/or in environments where mitigation measures are not in place.  

-- Based on currently available information, FAO-WHO-WOAH assesses the global public health risk of influenza A(H5) viruses as low. Although additional human infections associated with exposure to infected animals or contaminated environments are expected to occur, they remain limited in the general population and the overall current public health impact of such infections at a global level is minor, considering the surveillance, response, mitigation and control measures in place.  

-- However, while the risk of infection to the general public is low, among persons with exposure to infected birds or mammals or contaminated environments, the risk of infection can range from low to moderate, depending on nature of the exposure, the duration of exposure, the consistent and appropriate use of personal protective equipment, and the use of other response, mitigation and control measures particularly in environments where animals are kept.  

-- The pandemic potential of these viruses requires enhanced vigilance, especially in animal populations where animal to animal transmission is known to occur, and close monitoring in animals and humans. It remains essential that, while farmers enhance biosecurity on their farms, governments should focus efforts on strengthening surveillance in susceptible animal populations and in persons exposed to infected animals. 

-- In addition to prevention and mitigation  efforts to reduce and/or stop animal to animal transmission and reduce environmental contamination. Furthermore, prevention efforts to stop animals to human transmission and to improve risk communication and community engagement in particular to those occupationally exposed or with backyard poultry and training in the use of personal protective equipment are key to preventing new human infection with these viruses. 


2. What is the likelihood of human-to-human transmission of avian influenza A(H5) viruses?  

-- There has been no reported human-to-human transmission of A(H5) viruses since 2007, although there may be knowledge gaps in investigations around identified human infections. In 2007 and the years prior, small clusters of A(H5) virus infections in humans were reported, including limited human to human transmission from patients to health care workers. Since then, sustained human-to-human transmission of A(H5) viruses has not been reported.{42}  

-- The A(H5) viruses currently detected in mammals, including in human cases, largely retain genomic and biological characteristics of avian influenza viruses and remain well-adapted to spread among birds. Except for within-host acquired amino acid mutations in polymerase proteins, there is still limited evidence for adaptation to mammals and humans even when transmission in non-human mammals has been suspected.{43} 

-- No changes in receptor binding tropism have been consistently observed that would increase binding to receptors in the human upper respiratory tract which is one of several adaptations required to increase the probability of transmission to and among people. In addition, available preliminary sero-studies and seroinvestigations have not identified human-to-human transmission of A(H5N1) in the USA. Therefore, sustained human-to-human transmission of the currently circulating A(H5) viruses is considered unlikely without further genetic changes in the virus. This is actively being assessed by agencies in affected Member States, FAO, WHO, WOAH and partners. WHO, together with FAO and WOAH, continues to evaluate A(H5) viruses closely and will reassess the risk associated with the currently circulating A(H5) viruses as more information becomes available.  

-- Further antigenic characterization of A(H5) viruses, including in relation to the existing CVVs, and development of specific reagents are being prioritized at the WHO Collaborating Centres and Essential Regulatory Laboratories of GISRS in collaboration with public health, animal health, and veterinary sector colleagues.  


Confidence level of the assessment 

-- The overall confidence in the risk assessment is considered medium. The information used is derived from reports from national animal and human health authorities. There may be biases in surveillance, testing and reporting. Although the results and conclusions from peer-reviewed publications, pre-print publications and unpublished data informed this risk assessment, no systematic literature review was undertaken. Critical knowledge gaps remain in the understanding of the epidemiology. 


Recommended actions  

-- It is recommended that Member States and national authorities: 

increase surveillance and vigilance, in human populations, especially amongst occupationally exposed persons, for the possibility of zoonotic infections, particularly through National Influenza Centres (NICs) and other influenza laboratories associated with GISRS; 

assess and reduce the risk among occupationally exposed persons using methods such as active case finding and molecular and serologic methods, reducing environmental exposures, providing adequate and appropriate personal protective equipment; 

conduct active case finding around suspected and confirmed human cases to determine if there are additional cases or indications of human-to-human transmission; and   

work with national agencies and partners to better understand the exposure to and risk from raw/unpasteurized milk and milk products.  

-- Under the International Health Regulations (IHR) (2005),{44} States Parties are required to notify WHO within 24 hours of any laboratory-confirmed case of human influenza caused by a new subtype according to the WHO case definition.{45} 

-- WHO has published the case definition for human infections with avian influenza A(H5) virus requiring notification under IHR (2005).{46}  

-- Member States and national authorities are also recommended to: 

increase surveillance and timely reporting efforts for the early detection of A(H5) influenza viruses in domestic birds, wild birds and mammals{47}; 

include infection with an A(H5) influenza virus as a differential diagnosis, in non-avian species, including cattle, swine and other livestock and farmed domestic and wild animal populations, with high likelihood of exposure to A(H5) viruses; 

implement preventive and early response measures to break the chain of infection among domestic animals (for example, poultry and dairy cattle), including considering the use of vaccination to reduce circulation in poultry as per national policies and according to guidance provided by animal health organizations{48,49}; 

promptly report high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) events in all animal species, including cattle (according to the WOAH case definition{50}) and other domestic and wild mammals, to WOAH and other international organizations such as FAO;  

conduct genetic sequencing and share genetic sequences of influenza viruses and associated metadata in publicly available databases; 

protect animals by mitigating the risk of introduction and spread of the disease through implementation and/or strengthening biosecurity in livestock holdings/premises and along the value chain; 

protect persons by employing good production and hygiene practices when handling animals and animal products; and 

protect persons in contact with suspected/infected animals by providing appropriate personal protective equipment and communicating and educating on the importance and proper use of personal protective equipment and providing information and access to testing. 

(...)

-- Additional studies/surveillance, applying One Health principles are warranted, which could provide information to enhance confidence in the risk assessment. These may include serological studies in high-risk animal populations, in high-risk human populations, and epidemiological investigations.  Anyone who may have been exposed to infected or potentially infected animals or contaminated environments should be advised to promptly seek health care if they feel unwell, and to inform their health care provider of their possible exposure. Following prompt testing, early and appropriate clinical management should be initiated, and precautionary measures put in place to assess and prevent potential further spread among humans and animals.  

-- Clinicians should also be alerted to potential zoonotic infection in patients with an exposure history to birds or animals especially in areas where A(H5N1) viruses are known or suspected to be circulating in animals but also in areas where surveillance in animals may be limited.  

-- Routine epidemiologic and virologic surveillance for influenza should be conducted ideally yearround using a standard case definition in healthcare facilities according to WHO guidance.{51}  

-- Timely sharing of information and sequence data from both the human and animal health sectors from all regions should continue to be strongly recommended and is critical for rapid and robust joint risk assessment. 

-- The rapid sharing of virus materials with WHO Collaborating Centres of GISRS continues to be essential to conduct a thorough risk assessment and develop or adjust targeted response measures. 

-- The Tool for Influenza Pandemic Risk Assessment (TIPRA) provides an in-depth assessment of risk associated with some zoonotic influenza viruses – notably the likelihood of the virus gaining human-to-human transmissibility, and the impact should the virus gain such transmissibility. TIPRA maps relative risk amongst viruses assessed using multiple elements.{52} 

-- Data pertaining to the risk elements within TIPRA should be generated and shared with WHO.  

-- Efforts to reduce human exposure to birds, livestock, and other mammals infected with or potentially infected with avian and other animal influenza viruses should be implemented and enhanced to minimize the risk of zoonotic infections. 

-- Individuals with activities that involve exposure to infected animals and/or contaminated environments are at higher risk and should take necessary precautions to prevent infection.{53} 

-- Those who are exposed to potentially infected animals should have access to, be trained in their use under different environmental conditions, and wear personal protective equipment including eye protection.{54} 

-- If they develop respiratory symptoms or conjunctivitis, they should be rapidly tested, and precautionary infection control measures should be put in place to prevent potential further spread among humans and to animals. 

-- For detailed guidance on treatment, refer to relevant global and national guidance.{55} 

-- Some manufacturers have initiated production of an A(H5) human vaccine that matches current circulating strains. Although a few countries are procuring vaccine to vaccinate occupationally exposed persons, this is not currently being recommended as a global strategy considering the limited number of human infections with A(H5N1) 2.3.4.4b viruses.  

-- Investigations are ongoing to understand the risk to humans from consuming raw/unpasteurized milk contaminated with A(H5N1) virus. FAO, WHO and WOAH advise consuming pasteurized milk, instead of raw/unpasteurized milk. 

-- Due to the potential health risks from many dangerous zoonotic pathogens, raw/unpasteurized milk consumption should be avoided.{56} If pasteurized milk is not available, heating raw milk until it boils makes it safer for consumption.{57}  

-- More information will be available as investigations are actively ongoing in the USA and elsewhere. WHO and GISRS, jointly with FAO, WOAH and OFFLU are working closely together to continuously assess the avian influenza situation. This includes increased surveillance and testing to monitor the evolution and geographic spread of avian influenza viruses, including A(H5N1) viruses, to provide timely and updated joint risk assessments.  


References 

{1} Formerly classified as A(H5) clade 2.3.2.1c. Ort JT, Zolnoski SA, Lam TT, Neher R, Moncla LH. Development of avian influenza A(H5) virus datasets for Nextclade enables rapid and accurate clade assignment. bioRxiv [Preprint]. 2025 Feb 3:2025.01.07.631789. doi.org/10.1101/2025.01.07.631789. 

{2} WOAH. Report from World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS). wahis.woah.org/#/inreview/6218?reportId=171807&fromPage=event-dashboard-url

{3} Raut AA, Aasdev A, Kumar N, Pathak A, Mishra A, Sehgal P et al. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Clade 2.3.2.1a virus infection in domestic cats, India, 2025. bioRxiv 2025.02.23.638954; doi:  doi.org/10.1101/2025.02.23.638954. 

{4} Deng YM, Wille M, Dapat C, Xie R, Lay O, Peck H et al. Influenza A(H5N1) Virus Clade 2.3.2.1a in Traveler Returning to Australia from India, 2024. Emerg Infect Dis. 2025 Jan;31(1):135-138. doi.org/10.3201/eid3101.241210. 

{5} WOAH. Report from World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS). wahis.woah.org/#/inreview/6453?reportId=174033&fromPage=event-dashboard-url

{6} Thanawongnuwech R, Amonsin A, Tantilertcharoen R, Damrongwatanapokin S, Theamboonlers A, Payungporn S, et al. Probable Tiger-to-Tiger Transmission of Avian Influenza H5N1. Emerg Infect Dis. 2005;11(5):699-701. doi.org/10.3201/eid1105.050007. 

{7} Keawcharoen J, Oraveerakul K, Kuiken T, Fouchier R, Amonsin A, Payungporn S, et al. Avian Influenza H5N1 in Tigers and Leopards. Emerg Infect Dis. 2004;10(12):2189-2191. doi.org/10.3201/eid1012.040759. 

{8} Elsmo EJ, Wünschmann A, Beckmen KB, Broughton-Neiswanger LE, Buckles EL, Ellis J, et al. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus Clade 2.3.4.4b Infections in Wild Terrestrial Mammals, United States, 2022. Emerg Infect Dis. 2023;29(12):2451-2460. doi.org/10.3201/eid2912.230464. 

{9} Plaza PI, Gamarra-Toledo V, Euguí J, Lambertucci SA. Recent Changes in Patterns of Mammal Infection with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus Worldwide. Emerg Infect Dis. 2024;30(3):444-452. doi.org/10.3201/eid3003.231098. 

{10} Puryear W, Sawatzki K, Hill N, Foss A, Stone JJ, Doughty L, et al. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus Outbreak in New England Seals, United States. Emerg Infect Dis. 2023;29(4):786-791. doi.org/10.3201/eid2904.221538. 

{11} Uhart MM, Vanstreels RET, Nelson MI, Olivera V, Campagna J, Zavattieri V et al. Epidemiological data of an influenza A/H5N1 outbreak in elephant seals in Argentina indicates mammal-to-mammal transmission. Nat Commun 15, 9516 (2024). doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-53766-5. 

{12} Lee D, Bahl J, Torchetti M, Killian M, Ip HS, DeLiberto TJ, et al. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Viruses and Generation of Novel Reassortants, United States, 2014–2015. Emerg Infect Dis. 2016;22(7):1283-1285. doi.org/10.3201/eid2207.160048.  

{13} United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Federal and State Veterinary, Public Health Agencies Share Update on HPAI Detection in Kansas, Texas Dairy Herds. 25 March 2024. www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agencyannouncements/federal-state-veterinary-public-health-agencies-share-update-hpai

{14} USDA. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Detections in Livestock. www.aphis.usda.gov/livestockpoultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/livestock

{15} Nguyen T-Q, Hutter C, Markin A, Thomas M, Lantz K, Killian ML et al. Emergence and interstate spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) in dairy cattle. bioRxiv 2024.05.01.591751; doi.org/10.1101/2024.05.01.591751. 

{16} USDA. APHIS Confirms D1.1 Genotype in Dairy Cattle in Nevada, 31 Jan 2025. www.aphis.usda.gov/news/program-update/aphis-confirms-d11-genotype-dairy-cattle-nevada-0.   

{17} USDA. APHIS Identifies Third HPAI Spillover in Dairy Cattle, 13 Feb 2025. www.aphis.usda.gov/news/program-update/aphis-identifies-third-hpai-spillover-dairy-cattle.  

{18} Lowen AC, Baker AL, Bowman AS, García-Sastre A, Hensley SE, Lakdawala SS et al. 2025. Pandemic risk stemming from the bovine H5N1 outbreak: an account of the knowns and unknowns. J Virol 99:e00052-25. doi.org/10.1128/jvi.00052-25. 

{19} USDA. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Detections in Livestock. www.aphis.usda.gov/livestockpoultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/livestock

{20} Lombard J, Stenkamp-Strahm, McCluskey B, Abdul-Hamid C, Cardona C, Petersen B et al. Invited review: The One Health challenges and opportunities of the H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle in the United States, Journal of Dairy Science, Volume 108, Issue 7, 2025, Pages 6513-6537, ISSN 0022-0302, doi.org/10.3168/jds.2024-26222. 

{21} Facciuolo A, Aubrey L, Barron-Castillo U, Berube N, Norleen C, McCreary S et al. Dairy cows develop protective immunity against reinfection with bovine H5N1 influenza virus. Nat Microbiol 10, 1366–1377 (2025). doi.org/10.1038/s41564-025-01998-6. 

{22} USDA. Detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Mammals. 26 June 2025. Available at: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/mammals

{23} Vanstreels RET, Nelson MI, Artuso MC, Marchione VD, Piccini LE, Benedetti E et al. Novel Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (A)H5N1 Triple Reassortant in Argentina, 2025. Available at: doi.org/10.1101/2025.05.23.655175. 

{24} Agence fédérale pour la sécurité de la chaîne alimentaire. Communiqué de presse conjoint de l'AFSCA, Sciensano et du SPF Santé publique, Sécurité de la Chaîne alimentaire et Environnement, 4 Mar 2025. favvafsca.be/fr/publication/communique-de-presse-conjoint-de-lafsca-sciensano-et-du-spf-sante-publiquesecurite-de-la-chaine. 

{25} Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs and Animal and Plant Health Agency. Influenza of avian origin confirmed in a sheep in Yorkshire, 24 Mar 2025. www.gov.uk/government/news/influenza-of-avianorigin-confirmed-in-a-sheep-inyorkshire#:~:text=The%20UK's%20Chief%20Veterinary%20Officer,been%20confirmed%20in%20captive%20bir ds.   

{26} Banyard AC, Coombes H, Terrey J, McGinn N, Seekings J, Clifton B et al. Detection of clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 high pathogenicity avian influenza virus in a sheep in Great Britain, 2025. doi.org/10.1101/2025.06.27.661969. 

{27} Yang J, Qureshi M, Kolli R, Peacock TP, Sadeyen J-R, Carter T et al. The Haemagglutinin Gene of Bovine Origin H5N1 Influenza Viruses Currently Retains an Avian Influenza Virus phenotype.  doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.27.615407. 

{28} US CDC. CDC A(H5N1) Bird Flu Response Update February 26, 2025. www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/spotlights/h5n1response-02262025.html

{29} US CDC. CDC A(H5N1) Bird Flu Response Update November 18, 2024. www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/spotlights/h5n1response-11152024.html

{30} US CDC. CDC Reports A(H5N1) Ferret Study Results. 7 June 2024. www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/spotlights/ferretstudy-results.html

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{36} Brock N, Pulit-Penaloza JA, Belser JA, Pappas C, Sun X, Kieran TJ, et al. Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Isolated from Dairy Farm Worker, Michigan, USA. Emerg Infect Dis. 2025;31(6):1253-1256. doi.org/10.3201/eid3106.250386. 

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©FAO, WHO, WOAH, 2025 Some rights reserved. This work is available under a CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO licence. 

Source: World Health Organization, https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/updated-joint-fao-who-woah-public-health-assessment-of-recent-influenza-a(h5)-virus-events-in-animals-and-people-july2025

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