Immunological and virological questions for H5N1 pandemic emergence

TL;DR

This paper reviews the spread and characteristics of H5N1 influenza viruses and identifies research needed to prevent future pandemics.

Contribution

The paper highlights virological and immunological factors influencing H5N1 transmission and outlines key research priorities.

Findings

H5N1 influenza viruses have expanded geographically and host range since the 1990s.

Molecular barriers limit H5N1 transmission among humans.

Future research is needed to mitigate the H5N1 panzootic and prevent pandemics.

Abstract

Zoonotic spillover of influenza A viruses into humans has repeatedly triggered pandemics throughout history. Since their emergence in the 1990s, H5N1 influenza viruses have significantly expanded their geographical range and host species, raising global concern about the potential for sustained human-to-human transmission. In this review, we examine the virological characteristics of currently circulating H5N1 strains, key molecular barriers limiting their spread among humans, and critical areas of future research to mitigate the ongoing H5N1 panzootic and prevent future pandemics.

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