Evolving HA and PB2 genes of influenza A (H7N9) viruses in the fifth wave – Increasing threat to both birds and humans?

Zhao and colleagues recently reported in this Journal on novel mutations, recombinations and adaptations in avian influenza viruses in China over the past few years. 1 Zhao F. Tian J. Lin T. Shao J. Zhang Y. Chen Y. et al. Features of human-infecting avian influenza viruses and mammalian adaptations. J Infect. 2016; 73: 95-97 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (3) Google Scholar The first human infection with influenza A (H7N9) virus occurred in China on March 2013, which had caused worldwide concern. Newly emerging avian influenza A (H7N9) viruses are associated with severe and fatal respiratory diseases in humans, and many people infected with H7N9 virus died due to severe pneumonia and complications. 2 Chen Y. Liang W. Yang S. Wu N. Gao H. Sheng J. et al. Human infections with the emerging avian influenza A H7N9 virus from wet market poultry: clinical analysis and characterisation of viral genome. Lancet. 2013; 381: 1916-1925 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (707) Google Scholar