Scientists have warned that a “dog flu” virus has adapted to infect humans. This virus comes from a strain of bird flu called H3N2, which first infected dogs in 2006 and has now evolved into a mammal-adapted form of bird flu.
Bird flu experts at the Agricultural University of China, in their study on more than 4,000 dogs, found that the virus could better recognize human cell receptors and replicate in human cells. In their paper published in the journal eLife, the scientists write: “Our results showed that dogs may act as mediators for the adaptation of avian influenza viruses to humans.”
DOG FLU SYMPTOMS
However, six dogs were intentionally infected with known canine flu strains of H3N2, and each was only mildly ill with the most serious symptoms such as fever, sneezing and coughing.
CREATES LONG-TERM EPIDEMIC POTENTIAL
To date, although there has not been a single reported case of any human being killed by the canine flu virus, experts said the study now shows that H3N2 poses a “potential long-term epidemic” threat to humans.
Professor James Wood, head of the veterinary department at the University of Cambridge, said: “Changes in the canine virus make it better adapted to transmission between mammals, as you can imagine after such a long time in dogs. There may be more concern about the potential for long-term epidemics in other species, such as humans.” said.