H5N8

H5N8 is a subtype of the influenza A virus. Influenza A viruses are categorized into subtypes based on two surface proteins: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). H5N8 refers to a specific combination of these proteins. This virus is primarily found in birds, particularly waterfowl, and is considered a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus in domestic poultry, meaning it can cause severe illness and high mortality rates.

While H5N8 predominantly circulates in bird populations, there have been rare instances of transmission to mammals, including humans. However, human infections with H5N8 have been extremely uncommon and have generally been associated with close contact with infected birds. To date, there is no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission of H5N8.

Outbreaks of H5N8 in poultry can have significant economic impacts on the agricultural sector, leading to culling of infected flocks and trade restrictions. Public health efforts focus on surveillance in wild bird populations and domestic poultry to detect and control outbreaks, and to monitor for any potential changes in the virus that might increase its risk to humans. The World Health Organization and national health agencies closely monitor influenza viruses like H5N8 for pandemic potential.