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H5N1 - The avian influenza virus: transmission, symptoms and risks for humans

H5N1 is a highly dangerous bird flu virus with a high mortality rate in humans. Find out all about transmission, symptoms, treatment and the pandemic potential of the influenza virus.

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Wissenswertes über "H5N1"

H5N1 is a highly dangerous bird flu virus with a high mortality rate in humans. Find out all about transmission, symptoms, treatment and the pandemic potential of the influenza virus.

H5N1 is a highly pathogenic subtype virus of influenza virus A.influenza virus A, which occurs mainly in birds and is therefore often referred to as bird flu virus. It belongs to the Orthomyxoviridae family and was first detected in humans in Hong Kong in the 1990s. The disease is often fatal in birds and also poses a potentially life-threatening risk to humans if transmission occurs.

Transmission and spread

H5N1 is mainly transmitted through direct contact with infected birds, their faeces or contaminated materials. Human-to-human transmission has so far only been observed in very rare individual cases, but is the subject of intensive research. Poultry farms, wild birds and animal markets are considered to be particularly relevant sources of infection.

The virus occurs seasonally, but also in sporadic outbreaks worldwide - particularly in Asia, Africa, Europe and the Middle East. In Germany, H5N1 is regularly monitored in wild birds.

Symptoms in humans

If a person contracts H5N1, the infection is usually severe and begins with flu-like symptoms:

  • High fever

  • Cough, sore throat

  • Breathlessness

  • Muscle pain

  • In many cases, this is followed by pulmonary inflammation, which can progress to acute respiratory failure

The mortality rate for H5N1 infections is between 50-60% according to the WHO, making the virus one of the most dangerous influenza subtypes known.

Virological properties

The H5N1 virus is characterised by a high mutation rate and the ability to genetically reassort. It therefore has the potential to develop into a pandemic-capable virus - especially if more efficient human-to-human transmission becomes possible.

Vaccines and treatment

For humans, there are currently specific vaccines against H5N1, which are primarily intended for occupational groups with contact with poultry. In acute treatment, neuraminidase-inhibiting drugs such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) or zanamivir, provided they are started early.

Prevention and monitoring

Important prevention measures are:

  • Avoid contact with wild birds and poultry in risk areas

  • Hygiene measures in poultry farming

  • Protective clothing for animal contact

  • Animal disease surveillance by veterinary authorities

Since H5N1 can evolve continuously, international surveillance and research is crucial to detect and prevent a possible future pandemic at an early stage

Literature references:

  • WHO (2024). "H5N1 avian influenza - global situation and risk assessment."

  • Robert Koch Institute (2023). "Influenza A/H5N1 - Information for healthcare professionals and risk assessment."

  • Claas, E. C. et al. (2000). "Human Influenza A H5N1 Virus Related to a Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus." Lancet.

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