The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has unveiled its plan to advance research on the H5N1 influenza virus. The research agenda, titled "NIAID Research Agenda for 2024 H5N1 Influenza - May 2024," aims to enhance the understanding of the virus and develop strategies to prevent and treat its transmission and effects on humans.

Since 2003, H5N1 influenza viruses have been detected in 23 countries, primarily among wild birds and poultry. Out of the reported cases, nearly 900 have affected humans, particularly those who have had close contact with infected birds. However, recent years have seen a rise in a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus called HPAI H5N1, which has infected over 50 animal species.

In the late March of 2024, an HPAI H5N1 outbreak was reported among dairy cows in Texas. While there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission yet, public health officials are closely monitoring the situation as part of their pandemic preparedness efforts.

The NIAID research agenda focuses on four key objectives. Firstly, it aims to increase the understanding of the biology of H5N1 viruses and factors influencing their ability to transmit and cause disease. Secondly, it seeks to develop and evaluate prevention strategies, including the formulation of vaccines. Thirdly, it aims to advance existing and novel treatments, such as antivirals and monoclonal antibodies. Lastly, the agenda supports the development of strategies for the detection of H5N1 viruses.

Aligned with the NIAID's role in responding to the U.S. outbreak of H5N1 influenza in humans and animals, the research agenda also addresses the current outbreak among dairy cows, paying attention to the potential for human-to-human transmission. To achieve these objectives, the NIAID will utilize its domestic and international research infrastructures.

Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, the Director of NIAID, is available to discuss the details of the research agenda. NIAID's efforts are in line with its long-standing commitment to influenza research.

The NIH, comprising 27 Institutes and Centers, is the primary federal agency responsible for conducting and supporting medical research. With its focus on both common and rare diseases, the NIH aims to uncover the causes, develop treatments, and find cures through basic, clinical, and translational research.

For more information about NIAID and its programs, visit their official website. To learn more about NIH and its research initiatives, visit www.nih.gov.

Together, these research efforts aim to turn discovery into health by providing critical insights into the H5N1 influenza virus and improving strategies for its prevention and treatment.