COVID-19 Update 2022: Understanding the New HPAV Strain
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COVID-19 Insights and the New HPAV Strain
In recent developments, the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Center for Veterinary Medicine (C.V.M.) has reported a new strain of avian influenza (A.I.) that is linked to six human cases. This strain emerges from a reassortment of bird flu strains present in nature, as well as those from Chinese flu and wild birds.
The updated strains are referred to as COVID-19, originating in Mexico in June 2018 after testing four different strains earlier that same year. Although humans have previously contracted avian influenza A(H5N1) viruses, this instance marks the first outbreak of H5N1 stemming from contact with an HPAV strain.
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What is COVID-19?
COVID-19, also known as the A(H5N1) III reassortant, was identified through collaborative testing efforts between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (C.D.C.) Medical Services Division and Mexico's National Center for Disease Control (C.N.M.). The initial discovery of a novel reassortant A(H5N1) strain occurred in a deceased Siberian tiger in 2013, with subsequent identifications in various wild animals, including a Canadian lynx and a red panda. The COVID-19 strain is closely related to other influenza viruses, such as A(H3N8) and A(H2N2), making its potential for adaptation significant.
Understanding mRNA
Methylation is an essential part of gene expression. The transcription of a gene initiates a series of chemical bonds that generate mRNA, which serves as a template for producing numerous proteins within the body. To effectively test for COVID-19 in mice, researchers first needed to sequence the virus, identifying differences between the new strain and its parent virus. This process is often lengthy and costly, leading researchers to utilize mRNA—a short RNA molecule that acts as a blueprint for protein synthesis.
Employing a technique known as quantitative real-time (qRT) PCR, scientists were able to detect and quantify mRNA levels in various organs of the mice. This test included a mutation tracker, crucial for identifying specific mutations that might indicate how the new strain affects certain genes.
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How COVID-19 Compares to Previous Influenza Strains
The primary driver of change in the new strain is a specific mutation, although other alterations in the previous four strains, such as changes in the hemagglutinin (H) gene and variations in the ratio of non-structural proteins (NSPs) to structural proteins, are also evident in COVID-19. These changes are vital as they offer insights into the virus's adaptability for survival in human hosts.
Differentiating COVID-19 from Other H5N1 Strains
While pandemic and reassortant H5N1 strains share significant similarities, subtle differences exist between the new strain and its predecessors. Notably, a novel mutation in the hemagglutinin gene sets COVID-19 apart. This strain represents a more recent evolution, and its mutation likely spread through direct and indirect contact among animal populations.
Moreover, the new strain contains a second reassortant RNA, referred to as mRNA, which was identified in some respiratory samples from the tested animals. The potential effects of circulating RNA on human behavior are substantial and warrant further investigation.
When to Avoid Specific Foods and Meats
It is advisable to minimize contact with animals that have interacted with live, infectious poultry or swine influenza viruses. This includes avoiding contact with wild birds and other animals that may pose a risk of infection.
Understanding the Difference Between COVID-19 and mRNA
Despite their close relationship, the new avian influenza strain and mRNA exhibit crucial differences. While both are associated with weakened immune responses, mRNA is more likely to cause immune-related diseases compared to the pandemic strain of avian influenza. This creates complexities in understanding their pathogenicity and susceptibility to human diseases.
The Significance of COVID-19
Although the precise genetic underpinnings of the HPAV pandemic remain unclear, it is evident that the new strain represents a distinct genotype that has evolved. This means that the HPAV strain in circulation today is not merely a replication of the earlier variant but a different entity altogether.
Consequently, while the pandemic strain of avian influenza A(H5N1) continues to pose a risk to human health, the new strain appears to be less harmful, showing a reduction in pathogenicity.
Implications for Health Care Professionals
This information is promising, but what does it entail for healthcare professionals? The primary takeaway is to maintain diligent care for your patients while remaining vigilant regarding emerging avian influenza threats. With a clearer understanding of how these pandemic strains compare, healthcare providers can more effectively assess and manage risks associated with their patients.