A(H5N1) Avian Influenza Virus: A New Pandemic Threat on the Horizon?

Abstract

The present Editorial deals with the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus A(H5N1), whose clade 2.3.4.4b has been identified in several domestic and wild bird and mammalian species, both terrestrial and aquatic, with mass mortality outbreaks also affecting South American sea lions. Within this fast evolving scenario, the progressively and consistently expanding range of virus-susceptible host species alongside the prominent viral neurotropism and neuropathogenicity are a matter of concern, with A(H5N1) virus having additionally spread among USA cattle, which may also shed it through their milk. Although it is not happening at the moment, the possibility A(H5N1) virus may sooner or later become easily transmissible between people appears to be largely plausible. A collaborative, intersectorial and multidisciplinary approach, based upon the "One Health" concept/principle is strongly needed in order to properly counteract the global menace brought about by the HPAI A(H5N1) virus, thereby taking inspiration from the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.