A novel H5N1 variant, D1.1, has been discovered in dairy cattle in Nevada, marking the first instance of bird flu in these animals. Traced to a single spillover event from wild birds, this variant differs from previous strains and raises concerns regarding its implications for human health. Experts warn that the current immunity in dairy cattle may not defend against this new strain, complicating eradication efforts. While current infections in humans related to this strain have been mild, its severe illness track record suggests potential risks ahead, prompting a need for reevaluating vaccine strategies.
"It shows that even if you get rid of one virus that's established itself, another one can pop up like whack-a-mole," says Michael Worobey.
"The immunity built up in the dairy population against bird flu may not hold up well against this D1.1 genotype, and vaccines in the pipeline may need to be retooled," Worobey says.
Cattle infections with D1.1 aren’t expected to be much different in terms of "virulence and transmission," Dr. Jurgen Richt noted, but could present new challenges.
"Its track record in humans could be a major change from the earlier scenario," Dr. Richt commented, concerning the D1.1 genotype.
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