Next presentation by Ron Fouchier “Recent changes in epidemiology of avian influenza in relation to human health risks”. Many unreported human cases, not detected (mild disease) so case fatility rate unknown.
In USA 1 death in 70 reported human cases. At this moment no human-to-human transmission.
In USA 1 death in 70 reported human cases. At this moment no human-to-human transmission.
Comments
- H5N1 viruses from birds and cows not transmissible from ferret to ferret
- H5N1 viruses from humans or other mammals can be transmitted between ferrets
Virus shedded by ferrets infected by H5N1 from a human in the air for several days.
Adaptive mutations may facilitate transmission between mammals including humans. This should be monitored closely.
Conclusion: we are poorly prepared for a new influenza pandemic!