Infection of ratites with clade 2.3.4.4b HPAIV H5N1: Potential implications for zoonotic risk

Key Points

• To investigate the implications of HPAIV H5N1 infection in ratites for zoonotic risk.
• Detection of H5N1 high pathogenicity avian influenza in captive Greater Rhea.
• Conducted viral genetic analysis for mammalian-relevant mutations.
• Performed pathologic investigation of infected tissues.
• Identified PB2-E627 K mutation linked to mammalian adaptation.
• Observed severe multifocal necrotising inflammation in tissues.
• Found strong vasculotropism associated with the infection.

Abstract