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H5N5 Avian Influenza

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November 20, 2025

Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Health

Why in news?

The H5N5 bird flu has recently made headlines after the first-ever human case was confirmed in the United States in November 2025.

Avian Influenza/bird flu

  • It is a disease caused by Influenza A viruses that typically infect birds, these viruses are naturally found in wild aquatic birds, which act as reservoirs.
  • Subtypes – Influenza A viruses are categorized by their surface proteins - hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N), various subtypes include H5N1, H5N5, H5N8, etc.
  • Some strains are classified as low pathogenic (LPAI), causing mild disease in birds, while others are highly pathogenic (HPAI) and can kill large numbers of birds rapidly. 
  • H5N5 It is a subtype of the avian influenza A virus, primarily affecting wild and domestic birds like ducks, geese, and poultry.
  • Risks associated with the emergence of H5N5 –
    • Genetic Diversity – Influenza A (H5) viruses come in many forms due to high genetic variation.
    • Reassortment Risk – These viruses can shuffle genetic material (reassort), leading to new, unpredictable variants (as per the World Organization for Animal Health).
    • Low Current Risk – The current threat may be limited, but the underlying pandemic potential calls for proactive monitoring of animal hosts.
  • Spread of H5N5 flu –
    • In Birds – the virus spreads through respiratory secretions and feces, common in poultry farms, live bird markets, and wild bird populations.
    • In Humans - Infection occurs via close, unprotected contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.
  • Transmission – It can occur via droplets, dust, or by touching surfaces contaminated with bird secretions and then touching one's eyes, nose, or mouth.
  • Symptoms – It can range from asymptomatic or mild to very severe symptoms.
    • In humans - include fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches, eye symptoms (conjunctivitis) and sometimes gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea.
    • Severe cases can lead to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, or death.
  • Prevention –
    • Avoid close contact with sick or dead birds.
    • Use appropriate protective gear (masks, gloves) when handling poultry or cleaning bird coops.
    • Avoid raw or undercooked poultry, meat, eggs, and raw milk from infected animals.
    • Public health agencies recommend ongoing surveillance and rapid detection of new human infections.

To know about H5N1 vs H5N2, Click here

References

  1. The Hindu | U.S. resident infected with H5N5
  2. NDTV | US Reports World's First Human Case Of H5N5 Bird Flu.
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