Fatal Infection in Ferrets after Ocular Inoculation with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1)
Jessica A. Belser, Xiangjie Sun, Joanna A. Pulit-Penaloza, Taronna R. Maines
Abstract
Ocular inoculation of a clade 2.3.4.4b highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus caused severe and fatal infection in ferrets. Virus was transmitted to ferrets in direct contact. The results highlight the potential capacity of these viruses to cause human disease after either respiratory or ocular exposure.
Topics & Concepts
Influenza A virus subtype H5N1VirologyHighly pathogenicInoculationBiologyTransmission and infection of H5N1MicrobiologyVeterinary medicineMedicineImmunologyAvian influenza virusVirusInfluenza Virus Research StudiesViral gastroenteritis research and epidemiologyInfectious Encephalopathies and Encephalitis