Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), specifically the H5N1 subtype, primarily affects birds but can sporadically infect humans, typically those exposed to infected birds. Identified since 1997, it has a global presence, with recent cases in various countries including the U.S., China, and the U.K. HPAI is rare in humans but can be severe, with a high fatality rate in birds and sporadic human fatalities. Efforts to combat HPAI include active monitoring of exposed individuals and influenza testing in public health laboratories.
