Continuing evolution and transmission of avian influenza A(H3N8) viruses is a potential threat to public health

China faces the challenge of influenza A virus, including H3N8, in the post-COVID-19 era

“…However, influenza A viruses (IAVs) circulating in humans are mostly related to AIVs, and the possibility that AIVs may mutate and adapt to infect humans cannot be ruled out. 6 Currently, the main subtypes of influenza A circulating in China are H1N1 and H3N2, both of which originate in birds and have caused pandemics infecting millions of people. 7 , 8 Since the beginning of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the number of influenza cases in China has fallen to its lowest level in decades.…”