The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has taken the first step toward creating a domestically developed vaccine to protect humans against highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1). To achieve this, the council has invited eligible organizations, manufacturers, and research entities to collaborate in the research and development of a human vaccine candidate for H5N1.
Avian influenza H5N1 is a severe strain of bird flu that continues to pose a major risk to both animal and human health in India. Recent outbreaks in 2021, 2023, and 2024, primarily affecting poultry and wild birds in multiple states, have led to significant economic losses in the poultry sector and raised concerns about its potential impact on public health.
The virus is a serious public health concern due to its high mortality rate and the possibility of a global pandemic if it mutates to enable sustained human-to-human transmission. While human infections remain infrequent worldwide, when they do occur, they can be severe, highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures.
H5N1 infections in humans are known to have a fatality rate of over 50%. Although direct transmission to humans is rare and usually occurs through close contact with infected birds, the severity of the disease necessitates continuous vigilance. Infected individuals can experience symptoms ranging from fever and respiratory distress to multi-organ failure. While India has not reported any significant human cases in recent years, the risk remains due to the high level of human-animal interaction in poultry farming and live bird markets.
India’s preparedness for H5N1 includes active surveillance, medical countermeasures, and public health strategies. However, the development of a human vaccine is critical for mitigating potential outbreaks, protecting vulnerable populations, and strengthening pandemic preparedness. A vaccine would be a crucial tool in controlling the spread of the virus, reducing illness and fatalities, and minimizing the socio-economic impact of potential outbreaks.
The ICMR has initiated efforts to create an indigenous vaccine using either mRNA technology or traditional vaccine platforms. Combining vaccination with public awareness campaigns and improved healthcare infrastructure will enhance India’s ability to manage future H5N1 outbreaks effectively.
The ICMR-National Institute of Virology (ICMR-NIV) in Pune is actively studying both highly pathogenic and low-pathogenic strains of avian influenza. The institute has well-characterized strains of H5N1 available in its laboratory, which will aid in vaccine development and preparedness efforts.
By investing in vaccine development alongside robust surveillance and response mechanisms, India aims to strengthen its ability to combat the challenges posed by avian influenza H5N1, ensuring public health safety.
What is Avian Influenza?
Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is an illness caused by avian influenza A viruses, which primarily spread among birds rather than humans.
One particular strain, avian influenza A(H5), has been spreading globally among wild birds and has led to occasional outbreaks in poultry and dairy cows in the United States. In addition to infecting an increasing number of mammal species, the H5 strain has also been responsible for a few rare cases of human infection.
Currently, the public health risk from H5 bird flu remains low. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with state authorities to track individuals who may have been exposed to infected or potentially infected animals.
How Does It Spread?
Avian influenza A viruses can be transmitted from infected birds to other animals and, in some cases, to humans through two primary routes:
- Direct Contact – Exposure to infected birds or contaminated environments where the virus is present.
- Through an Intermediate Host – Another animal may act as a carrier, facilitating the spread of the virus.
Individuals who have close, prolonged, and unprotected contact with infected birds, animals, or contaminated surfaces are at a higher risk of infection. This includes exposure to secretions and excretions such as mucus, saliva, feces, or milk (in the case of infected dairy cows). Using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) can help reduce the risk of transmission.
Source of Information https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/about/index.html
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