Avian Influenza Infects Dairy Cattle

Avian influenza is a virus that affects bird populations, both domestic and wild. It is classified as a Type A virus. Like all viruses, avian influenza changes over time due to mutations that affect proteins. The specific proteins for this particular virus are hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). The alterations in the proteins occur due to mutations on the single-strand RNA. These mutations accumulate over time creating viruses that are antigenically different making it difficult for the immune system to recognize and fight them.

• How can avian flu be transmitted to dairy cattle?

• What are possible ways that infected birds interact with dairy cattle?
• How does the virus use the nucleic acids of the host organisms to lead to transmission across species?
• What are the differences between other organisms that have been infected with avian flu?

Students could:

• Research viral replication and compare the processes between different species.
• Examine and analyze various RNA sequences to detect mutations using HHMI: Ebola Disease Detectives. The resource is for Ebola, but could be modified to fit for Avian Influenza.
• Investigate how the virus is transmitted to other mammals.

• Centers For Disease Control | Current H5N1 Bird Flu Situation in Dairy Cows (July 1, 2024): Digital article reports on details of the outbreak of avian flu that began in March 2024 in the U.S. It provides statistics of states that have had the outbreaks and the number of herds affected. This article also discusses impacts on humans and prevention steps.
• Centers For Disease Control | Influenza Virus Genome Sequencing and Genetic Characterization: Provides information on genetic sequencing background for influenza and the specific proteins that that determine virus properties.
• American Veterinary Medicine Association | Avian influenza virus type A (H5N1) in U.S. dairy cattle (June 28, 2024): Digital article shares details about states that have cases as well as clade identification of H5N1 and specific details about transmission history and risk factors.
• USDA | Influenza and Biosecurity: Not Just for the Birds: Flyer provides information methods of prevention and protection for both people and animals.
• World Organization for Animal Health | Avian Influenza: Digital resource that provides an overview of avian influenza, the global situation as well the collaborations taking place. Prevention and control measures are also explained.