Ptačí chřipka

Ptačí chřipka, known in English as avian influenza, is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can also infect humans and other animals. It is caused by influenza viruses typified by their classification into subtypes based on two proteins on the virus surface, hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). Avian influenza is significant in the field of virology and public health due to its potential to cause outbreaks in bird populations and, in more severe cases, lead to zoonotic transmission to humans, resulting in severe illness or death. The disease can manifest in various forms ranging from mild to highly pathogenic strains, with the latter capable of causing extensive poultry loss and raising concerns for potential pandemics. Surveillance and control measures are essential in managing outbreaks and preventing the spread of the virus among birds and to humans.