HPAI stands for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. It is a term used in veterinary medicine to describe a severe and highly contagious form of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu. HPAI is caused by certain strains of the influenza A virus, particularly those belonging to the H5 and H7 subtypes.
This viral infection primarily affects birds, particularly domestic poultry such as chickens and turkeys, but also wild birds and other avian species. The pathogenicity of HPAI refers to its ability to cause severe disease and high mortality rates in infected birds. It is characterized by rapid onset, systemic infection, and a high propensity to cause death.
HPAI can have significant economic and public health consequences. Outbreaks of HPAI in poultry can result in massive culling of infected and at-risk birds to prevent further spread. It may also lead to trade restrictions on affected countries' poultry products, impacting the national economy. Furthermore, there is a concern that some strains of HPAI could potentially infect humans and cause serious illness or even death, although this is relatively rare.
To prevent the spread of HPAI, strict biosecurity measures are necessary, including quarantine protocols, surveillance and monitoring, and vaccination programs. Rapid detection, containment, and control of HPAI outbreaks are crucial to protect both animal and human health, as well as to ensure the sustainability of the poultry industry.
