The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced updates on its ongoing investigation into H5N1 avian flu activity in the United States. Genetic sequencing identified the D1.3 genotype in a sample from an Ohio poultry worker, marking the first known illness involving this specific strain.
The CDC confirmed that the virus is part of the clade 2.3.4.4b family and shares ancestry with the A3 genotype introduced to North America in 2022. However, genetic analysis showed no markers indicating a significant impact on antiviral effectiveness or vaccine development.
Meanwhile, serology testing on a San Francisco child’s close contacts revealed no signs of H5N1 transmission among them, supporting the CDC’s earlier assertion that human-to-human spread has not been detected in the US. The agency also highlighted ferret studies demonstrating pre-existing antibodies from 2009 H1N1 seasonal flu may offer some protection against H5N1.
In related news, the USDA announced up to $100 million in funding for projects aimed at battling avian flu in poultry and improving egg prices. Priority areas include novel therapeutics, diagnostics, research into virus introduction, and vaccine development. The agency emphasized that no vaccines are currently authorized and will involve input from multiple stakeholders before making a decision.
The USDA also confirmed more H5N1 detections in four states: Indiana’s layer pullet facility, a commercial duck breeding farm, Illinois’ backyard flocks, Kansas’, and Montana’s.
Source: https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/avian-influenza-bird-flu/cdc-confirms-d13-genotype-recent-h5n1-case-ohio