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Scientific American
a day ago
- Health
- Scientific American
Gene-Swaps Could Let Influenza Jump Species
Influenza viruses are shifty entities. They accumulate small genetic changes on a regular basis, necessitating yearly updates to the flu vaccines because the prior year's strain may not look much like the following year's. But they can also make sudden leaps by incurring big genetic changes that may allow them to jump from one animal species to another or to humans. A seemingly ingenious and sneaky way for viruses to make these leaps is by swapping genetic material with other flu strains. Called reassortment, this exchange happens when a person or animal is infected with two types of flu virus at the same time. While replicating inside the host cell, the viruses can grab bits of each other's genetic code and incorporate them into their own gene sequences. Reassortment is much less common than small mutations that change the flu year to year, but it's important: at least three of the last four human flu pandemics have involved reassortment. On supporting science journalism If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today. 'Reassortment has played a major, major role in the emergence of pandemic influenza,' says Daniel Perez, a professor of poultry medicine at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, who studies how flu moves between species. The past century saw four flu pandemics. The first was the notorious 1918 Great Influenza, which killed around 50 million people. The second was in 1957, when a new flu killed between one million and four million people worldwide. In 1968 another new flu emerged, killing another one million to four million people. Finally, in 2009, a novel swine flu appeared, killing between 151,000 and 575,000 people that year. Flu viruses are categorized by two types of proteins on their surfaces, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). These proteins each have multiple subtypes, which is why you'll see labels such as H1N1 or H5N1. The H refers to the HA protein type, and the N refers to the type of NA protein. The Great Influenza that swept the globe during World War I was an H1N1 flu that likely emerged in Kansas. Its descendants circulated in both humans and pigs until 1957, when it was suddenly replaced in humans by an H2N2 flu. This new virus first popped up in southern China. Its main genetic backbone belonged to the 1918 flu, Perez says, but it had acquired three new gene sequences from an avian flu, swapping its HA and NA proteins for new subtypes. For reasons not completely understood, this new H2N2 wiped out H1N1 in humans for decades—H1N1 wouldn't be seen again in people until 1977. The 1968 pandemic was another reassortment event. This time, the H2N2 that was circulating in humans swapped genes with an H3N2 avian influenza, probably somewhere in China. (The first identified outbreak was in Hong Kong.) Then came the 2009 pandemic, a true 'globalized pandemic,' Perez says. In the early 2000s there had been a few sporadic human infections in the U.S. with so-called triple-reassorted flu viruses that contained genes from human, avian and swine influenzas. These cases were rare and mostly in people who worked on pig farms; these viruses didn't transmit from human to human. That changed in 2009 when the triple-reassorted viruses picked up new genes from a Eurasian swine flu. 'It's a perfect example of globalization,' Perez says, 'because the virus contains not only gene segments from an avian flu, from a swine flu [and] from a human flu but also from very different geographical locations.' The reassortment of flu viruses that infect different species fortunately happens relatively infrequently, says Charlotte Kristensen, a postdoctoral researcher in veterinary clinical microbiology at the University of Copenhagen. 'It has to be two different viruses infecting the same host cell, and the reassortment has to be successful. And it's not always like the gene segments are compatible,' she says. Such reassortment happens all the time between avian flu strains that infect birds, says Yuan Liang, also a University of Copenhagen veterinary clinical microbiology postdoctoral researcher. 'Especially since 2020, there have been a lot of new variants emerging because of reassortments' in birds, Liang says. The various strains of H5N1 circulating now in wild birds, domestic poultry and dairy cows have yet to cause a pandemic in people. It's hard to say whether the virus will stay mostly in animals or whether we're now in a period like the one before the 2009 flu pandemic, when farmworkers occasionally came down with a reassorted virus that would later gain the gene sequences it needed to spread from person to person. No one expect H5N1 to take hold in dairy cattle, Liang says, so the question now is what new, unexpected step this virus might take. 'This whole situation really highlights how little we know and how complex it is,' Kristensen says.
New Indian Express
a day ago
- Health
- New Indian Express
Influenza cases on the rise in Kerala; 19 deaths so far in 2025
KOCHI: With 19 deaths and 1,857 cases reported so far this year, the state is witnessing a surge in influenza virus infection. In the first nine days of July, the state reported 382 cases and six deaths. Influenza is a seasonal disease caused by environmental and other factors, with fever and body pain being the common symptoms. However, a high proportion of elderly population and youngsters with lifestyle diseases, cancer, and obesity poses a threat. According to Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, convenor of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) research cell, there are three strains of influenza viruses in circulation now. 'H1N1, H3N2 (both of which come in the Influenza A category), and Influenza B strains are circulating. Also, a vast majority of cases go undiagnosed as the symptoms are often indistinguishable from other common viral infections,' Dr Rajeev said. The reason why fever and flu-related mortality is on the rise is the prevalence of comorbidities, pointed out Dr B Ekbal, a public health expert. 'Among the elderly and youngsters, more people are suffering from lifestyle diseases including diabetes, hypertension, and even cancer. In Kerala, only 40% of the people control diabetes properly. Obesity is also a major factor,' Dr Ekbal said. The severity of the disease varies as per the patient profile. 'Those with comorbidities and among elderly, the condition can even cause death. If the host is weak, the impact will be greater,' Dr Rajeev said. Unlike Covid, influenza has effective treatment, and if symptoms are present, it is better to conduct a flu test, Dr Ekbal said. 'The number of people who undergo flu tests is low in the state. Antivirals, if taken within 48 hours, are effective too,' he said. An expert panel led by Dr Ekbal — entrusted with formulating a new immunisation policy in November 2023 — had proposed a mandatory administration of flu jabs to those aged 65 and above, but no action has been taken. The data on seasonal flu released by the National Centre for Disease Control revealed that Kerala reported the highest number of deaths due to influenza A till April 30 this year. Precautions
Time of India
5 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
H3N2 on rise, behind long cough-cold spell
Kolkata: A prolonged cold-and-cough could be the H3N2 virus , currently in circulation in the city. Hospitals and labs in Kolkata are seeing a rising number of patients testing positive for H3N2. The cases started trickling in around mid-June, and now, the numbers are multiplying fast. Common during both monsoon and winter months, H3N2 is a subtype of influenza A, like H1N1. Though less virulent than H1N1 (swine flu), this respiratory virus is notorious for causing nagging, prolonged bouts of cough and cold in most affected individuals. "We detected around 23 cases from mid-June till the beginning of this week. And the number is going up, with about 20 more positive cases being detected in our lab in the past three-four days," said microbiologist Bhaskar Narayan Chaudhuri, head of the lab at Peerless Hospital. You Can Also Check: Kolkata AQI | Weather in Kolkata | Bank Holidays in Kolkata | Public Holidays in Kolkata Hospitals reported that while most cases are mild, the detection is mostly from admitted patients who came with complaints like fever, cough, body ache, fatigue, and sore throat. "Last year, we did not get a significant number of H3N2 cases. But there is a marked rise in this upper respiratory infection now. Among the positive samples, many are from children and the elderly," said molecular pathologist Abhirup Sarkar, lab director at Suraksha Diagnostics. Sources said some labs are getting as many as seven H3N2-positive cases in 10 flu samples. What concerns doctors is that while this virus causes mild illness in most cases, it could trigger serious illness in patients under two, and the elderly with comorbidities. Health experts said both H1N1 and H3N2 are subtypes of the influenza A virus, but they differ in their specific characteristics and how they affect humans. H1N1 caused a pandemic in 2009, followed by several surges over the years in India. "H3N2 is a common cause of seasonal influenza, with peaks during the monsoon months and also during winter. Both viruses can cause similar flu-like symptoms, but H3N2 is often associated with higher-grade fever and leucopenia or low WBC count. H1N1 may be linked to more prominent respiratory issues, including viral pneumonia, and gastrointestinal issues. H1N1 usually causes more severe infections than H3N2, and mortality is higher in the former," Chaudhuri added. Narayana Hospital Howrah detected the virus in two male patients who are above 60. "We are concerned about this virus because it can cause severe disease in some, requiring hospitalisation. Currently, there is no vaccine available against H3N2," said Rasika Avinash Deshmukh, microbiologist and infection control officer at the Howrah hospital. Doctors said the route of transmission of this virus is through respiratory droplets, and cough etiquette, mask-wearing, and hand hygiene are some preventive measures.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Elanco Receives USDA Approval for TruCan™ Ultra CIV H3N2/H3N8 (Canine Influenza Vaccine) Bringing to Market a High Standard of Respiratory Protection
TruCan Ultra CIV is the only ½ mL bivalent Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) vaccine offering broad protection against H3N2 and H3N8. 100% virus neutralization against 33 current field isolates.1 Unlike currently available products, only TruCan Ultra CIV demonstrates zero lung lesions in vaccinated dogs post H3N2 challenge.2,3,4 TruCan Ultra CIV completes Elanco's extensive line of Tru Portfolio vaccines. GREENFIELD, Ind., July 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Elanco Animal Health Incorporated (NYSE: ELAN) today announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved TruCan Ultra CIV H3N2/H3N8, a canine influenza vaccine designed to provide broad respiratory disease protection. The approval of TruCan Ultra CIV completes Elanco's Tru Portfolio of comfortable and convenient combination vaccines made with PureFil™ Technology, an exclusive process for creating highly purified vaccines designed to reduce adverse reactions and deliver better experiences. In Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) studies, TruCan Ultra CIV was shown to be highly effective in protecting dogs' lungs and improving clinical signs: Zero vaccinated dogs developed lung lesions post H3N2 challenge2 100% neutralization of 33 currently circulating CIV field isolates1 Proven to reduce viral shedding2,5 Proven safe across multiple breed and ages in field safety study5 "With the recent USDA approval for TruCan Ultra CIV, Elanco continues to lead the charge in innovative animal health solutions," said Bobby Modi, Executive Vice President, U.S. Pet Health and Global Digital Transformation. "This vaccine not only offers broad protection against canine influenza but also integrates seamlessly into our Tru Portfolio. Our commitment to delivering safe, effective and advanced solutions reaffirms our position as a trusted partner in animal health, driving forward our mission to enrich lives through the health of animals." Respiratory disease outbreaks can be devastating for patients, their families and veterinary clinics, sometimes leading to facility shutdowns and large financial impact. Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC) is a collection of respiratory diseases of various causative agents, including CIV among others. Certain breeds can be at a higher risk for severe symptoms associated with CIRDC, especially Brachycephalic dogs – dog breeds with short heads, flat faces and snub noses.6 These highly at-risk breeds, which includes French Bulldogs, Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers and more, continue to grow in popularity with six of the top 25 breeds in the U.S. being brachycephalic.7 Unfortunately, there is a relatively low rate of vaccination for CIV in the U.S. leaving these highly susceptible patients particularly at risk for developing infection when exposed to CIV.8 Patients with the highest risk factors include social dogs, dogs with pre-existing airway disease and those that are unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated. Brachycephalics strongly benefit from added protection from respiratory disease as they can be life-threatening, with upper respiratory disorders being the cause of death in 17% of those breeds.6 It only takes one patient shedding CIV to spark an outbreak. "With TruCan Ultra CIV, we are improving our ability to protect dogs from serious respiratory disease while remaining committed to helping provide a happier clinic experience for pets and their owners," said Dr. Jennifer Miller, technical veterinarian at Elanco. "This addition to our vaccine portfolio means our veterinarian customers can confidently offer a more complete set of immunizations tailored to the needs of all dogs, ensuring their long-term health and happiness." Elanco's Tru Vaccine line is the first vaccine line recommended by Fear Free®, an organization whose mission is to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety and stress in pets by inspiring and educating the people who care for them. "Fear, anxiety and stress in pets can stem from many factors, including illness," said Dr. Marty Becker, Founder of Fear Free. "When veterinarians have effective tools to help protect pets from diseases like canine influenza, it can contribute to a smoother, less stressful experience for both pets and their people. Solutions like TruCan Ultra CIV support the goal of reducing fear, anxiety and stress by keeping pets healthier and more comfortable in the veterinary setting." The approval of TruCan Ultra CIV is a key addition to completing Elanco's vaccine portfolio by addressing respiratory disease outbreaks. TruCan Ultra CIV is now available for pre-order and will ship within the next 30 business days. Learn more about TruCan Ultra CIV at *Drs. Becker and Reinero are consultants for Elanco Animal Health. ABOUT ELANCO Elanco Animal Health Incorporated (NYSE: ELAN) is a global leader in animal health dedicated to innovating and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets, creating value for farmers, pet owners, veterinarians, stakeholders and society as a whole. With 70 years of animal health heritage, we are committed to breaking boundaries and going beyond to help our customers improve the health of animals in their care, while also making a meaningful impact on our local and global communities. At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our purpose – all to Go Beyond for Animals, Customers, Society and Our People. Learn more at 1,2 Elanco Animal Health. Data on File. 3 USDA APHIS. USDA APHIS. Elanco Animal Health. Data on File. 6 The Humane Society of the United States. American Kennel Club. Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2023 - American Kennel Club8 Malter et al. Vaccine 40 (2022) 1001-1009. Trucan, Elanco and the diagonal bar logo are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates. © 2025 Elanco or its affiliates. PM-US-25-0067(2) Investor Contact: Tiffany Kanaga (765) 740-0314 Contact: Season Solorio (765) 316-0233 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Elanco Animal Health Sign in to access your portfolio
Korea Herald
07-07-2025
- Health
- Korea Herald
Seoul to conduct research on human flu virus found in pets
A citywide study about humans infecting pets with influenza viruses is to be conducted until May next year jointly by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and researchers from Seoul National University. The city's Public Health and Environment Research Institute and SNU's College of Veterinary Medicine will examine the reverse zoonosis of H1N1, H3N2 and B/Victoria lineages on pet dogs and cats, according to the city government on Monday. The researchers will examine the prevalence rate and infection factors, conducting research and statistical analysis on the samples. The upcoming research is a case study on the possibility of humans infecting their pets with the aforementioned strains. Reverse zoonosis of influenza viruses has been documented across the world, particularly human-to-pig transmission. But Seoul said there have not been enough pet-related serological surveys, referring to blood tests conducted to look at antibodies against a particular virus. Seoul officials said they hope the research will provide basic data on antibodies of influenza viruses inside pets' bodies and the prevalence of reverse zoonosis among them.
