A review on human influenza A H5N1 infections in Hong Kong

Abstract

Avian influenza A H5N1 remains the most threatening virus that may cause another devastating pandemic in the foreseeable future. In 1997, Hong Kong was the first place to detect human infections due to this virus originated from birds. The experience and lessons learnt provide important information for controlling further outbreaks caused by avian influenza viruses.

Research frontiers highlighted in Science China Life Sciences in 2009

“…The May 2009 issue of Science China Life Sciences focused on this topic [5]. Areas covered include the following: human avian influenza A (H5N1) virus infection in mainland China [31,32], human influenza A H5N1 infections in Hong Kong [33], interspecies transmission and host restriction of avian H5N1 influenza virus [34], structure and sequence analysis of influenza A virus nucleoprotein [35], structure-function of the influenza virus RNA polymerase PA subunit [36], molecular pathogenesis of the avian influenza H5N1 [37], ways for H5N1 to enter the host cells [38] and website information and bioinformatics about this virus [39]. These review articles were highly valuable for enhancing understanding both the biology and clinical background of this virus.…”

Finding a new drug and vaccine for emerging swine flu: What is the concept?

“…The case of avian flu [65][66][67][68][69][70][71] which emerged in the few recent years is the best example (Table 1). Avian flu is a novel influenza virus infection (owing to H5N1 influenza virus infection).…”

“…This bird-borne disease is still a problem worldwide. [65][66][67][68][69][70][71][72] No specific treatment has been developed yet. Luckily, only sporadic cases occurred around the world without pandemic.…”

Finding a new drug and vaccine for emerging swine flu: What is the concept?

“…The case of avian flu65–71 which emerged in the few recent years is the best example (Table 1). Avian flu is a novel influenza virus infection (owing to H5N1 influenza virus infection).…”