It marks a critical moment in the current outbreak of avian influenza, caused by the H5N1 strain of the virus, which began in 2020 and has reached as far as the poles of the planet. The virus has infected several species, including pigs, bears, dolphins and penguins. Millions of animals have been culled to curb transmission, hampering livelihoods and trade. As H5N1 evolves, HIMANSHU N speaks to SURESH V KUCHIPUDI, professor and chair of the faculty in Infectious Diseases and Microbiology at the School of Health, University of Pittsburgh, US, on the potential of avian influenza sparking the next human pandemic:
The Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus A (H5N1), or the bird flu virus, has been known for about three decades. Why is it considered so dangerous, and how has the current outbreak spread so far?
The global distribution of H5N1 viruses primarily affects birds, making them panzootic among poultry. However, the concern arises from its potential to transition into a human virus, potentially triggering a human pandemic.
Bird flu viruses belonging to the H5N1 strain have been present for a long time. The original H5N1 virus was first identified in 1996 in a goose in China. These viruses later spread globally, underwent significant genetic changes, and generated multiple subtypes.
この記事は Down To Earth の May 01, 2024 版に掲載されています。
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この記事は Down To Earth の May 01, 2024 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、8,500 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
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Vision 2030
Economic growth must take into account needs of energy transition, climate mitigation, with action aligned as per India's 2030 climate goals
FIX OUR FOOD
Chemical-dependent farming, lax labelling laws, rising anti-microbial resistance must top the agenda
BATTLE THE CAR BULGE
Clean, affordable, integrated and accessible public transport the only solution
CONSERVE NOW
Disregard for biodiversity conservation over the past two decades needs immediate redressal
SCRAP THE DUMP
Disincentivise garbage dumping, invest in behavioural change
PLAN THEM COOL
As urban India turns into a heat trap, the government must focus on improving cities' liveability
THINK LONG-TERM
India needs continued emphasis on flagship programmes, aligned to long-term planning that focusses on water security and circular economy in a climate-risked era
OVERHAUL OVERDUE
Hold polluting industries accountable for public health risks, environmental hazards, climate change; provide them support for green transition
LOOK BEYOND DUST
Reinvent National Clean Air Programme to focus on fine particulate matter and trans-boundary pollution
IT'S NOW OR NEVER
Clean energy sectors need demand-driven markets and domestic industries that can cater to the entire value chain