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The Bird Flu Virus Is Mutating Fast - And Scientists Say Our Vaccines May Not Be Enough


Published on 2025-03-23 16:02:25 - SciTechDaily
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  • H5N1 influenza is evolving rapidly, weakening the effectiveness of existing antibodies and increasing its potential threat to humans. Scientists at UNC Charlotte and MIT used high-performance computational modeling to analyze thousands of viral protein-antibody interactions,

The article from SciTechDaily discusses the rapid mutation of the H5N1 bird flu virus, which has raised concerns among scientists about the effectiveness of current vaccines. The virus, which has been circulating among wild birds and poultry, has shown an increased ability to infect mammals, including humans, with a high mortality rate. Recent studies indicate that the virus is undergoing significant genetic changes, potentially enhancing its transmissibility and pathogenicity. This evolution could render existing vaccines less effective, prompting urgent calls for the development of new, more adaptable vaccines. Researchers are particularly alarmed by the virus's ability to reassort with other influenza strains, which could lead to a more virulent form capable of causing a widespread human outbreak. The article emphasizes the need for continuous surveillance, research, and preparedness to manage this evolving threat.

Read the Full SciTechDaily Article at:
[ https://scitechdaily.com/the-bird-flu-virus-is-mutating-fast-and-scientists-say-our-vaccines-may-not-be-enough/ ]
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