The Latest Breaking News from Influenza

H5N1 virus activity has intensified globally since 2021, posing risk to humans. A study in Nature reveals a shift in the epicentre of these viruses from Asia to Africa and Europe. Analysis of 10,000 viral genomes and epidemiological data shows new strains have evolved through genetic reassortment. Findings suggest persistence…

An outbreak of avian flu – a highly contagious viral infection that affects wild birds as well as poultry – has hit poultry farms in South Africa. Two different strains are causing outbreaks in the country – A(H5N1) and influenza A(H7N6). A specialist in poultry health, Shahn Bisschop, answers some…

Annual mass influenza vaccinations of NSW residents aged under 65 would save hundreds of lives and millions of dollars each year, a report has found.

The South African government says nearly 2.5 million chickens have been culled in an effort to contain outbreaks of two separate strains of avian influenza that have threatened to create a shortage of eggs for consumers

Research led by the Doherty Institute and UNSW shows that cells are replaced as we get older by ones less able to read threat from infections

DPH issues guidelines to prevent/control seasonal flu; only Category C patients to be tested. Mild fever/cough/sore throat (Category A) need not be tested, but should be isolated at home. Category B patients should be treated with Oseltamivir, isolated at home. Category C patients need testing, Oseltamivir, hospitalisation. Masks, vaccination advised…

Of all the recently emerging and potentially pandemic viruses, the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus H5N1 is one of the fiercest. First detected in Hong Kong in 1997, it spread to the rest of the world with a mortality rate of 60% when transmitted from birds to humans. The…

Influenza is a seasonal virus that emerges and peaks in winter, so with evenings shortening in the UK, it’s time to think about flu again.

If you test positive for COVID and you’re eligible for antivirals, you’ll likely ask your GP for a script to protect you from severe disease.