H5N1 Adaptation Detected in South Dakota Cats
Originally Published 1 year ago — by Phys.org
Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh have identified potential adaptation of the H5N1 avian influenza virus in domestic cats, following an outbreak in South Dakota where multiple cats died with neurological and respiratory symptoms. The study found that the H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4.b virus, which has previously infected various bird and mammalian species, can cause severe neurological damage in cats. This raises concerns about the virus's ability to cross species barriers and adapt to mammalian hosts, potentially posing public health risks if cats act as mixing vessels for avian and mammalian influenza viruses.
