new mutation may increase risk of infection in humans — Science & IT

Now the virus mainly infects birds, but recently a case of human infection has been registered.

Scientists from Scripps Research warn of a potential health threat associated with the H5N1 influenza virus in a new study.

This was reported by ScienceBlog.

The mutation, known as Q226L, allows the virus to interact more effectively with human cells, a critical step before the virus can be transmitted from person to person. However, further genetic changes are required for widespread spread among humans.

“While there are currently no documented cases of human-to-human transmission, there is concern that the virus may adapt to human-to-human transmission and potentially lead to pandemic influenza,” the article said.

Currently, H5N1 mainly infects birds, but there has recently been a case of human infection in the United States…