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NewsDecode | Health & Biotechnology | Mains Paper 3: Science and Technology, Biotechnology, Health
From UPSC Perspective:
Key focus areas:
Mains level: Public Health; Emerging viral threats; Global health security; Biotechnology and response mechanisms.
Prelims focus: Basic facts on H5N1, genetic reassortment, virus mutations, global health responses.
Why in the News?
Cambodia has recently detected a novel reassortant strain of the H5N1 avian influenza virus. This strain, resulting from genetic mixing, has raised concerns globally due to its potential for increased infectivity and adaptability. Health authorities are advocating for enhanced surveillance and monitoring to mitigate any potential threat to human health.
Understanding H5N1 and Reassortment
H5N1 Virus: Commonly known as avian influenza, this virus predominantly affects birds but can occasionally infect humans with a high mortality rate.
Reassortment: This process occurs when two or more influenza viruses combine genetic material, potentially creating new strains. Such genetic reassortments can increase a virus's ability to infect humans and enhance transmissibility.
Details of the New Reassortant Virus
Cambodia’s Findings: The detected novel H5N1 reassortant in Cambodia has combined gene segments from other avian influenza strains, raising concerns over its potential for adaptation to humans.
Human Health Implications: Although current transmission to humans is minimal, genetic reassortment poses risks of the virus gaining transmissibility among humans, necessitating close monitoring.