The emerging influenza virus threat: status and new prospects for its therapy and control

Abstract

Influenza A viruses (IAVs) are zoonotic pathogens that cause yearly outbreaks with high rates of morbidity and fatality. The virus continuously acquires point mutations while circulating in several hosts, ranging from aquatic birds to mammals, including humans. The wide range of hosts provides influenza A viruses greater chances of genetic re-assortment, leading to the emergence of zoonotic strains and occasional pandemics that have a severe impact on human life. Four major influenza pandemics have been reported to date, and health authorities worldwide have shown tremendous progress in efforts to control epidemics and pandemics. Here, we primarily discuss the pathogenesis of influenza virus type A, its epidemiology, pandemic potential, current status of antiviral drugs and vaccines, and ways to effectively manage the disease during a crisis.

Fig. 1

Mechanisms for the emergence of pandemic influenza virus strains. The virus keeps circulating among own species and sometimes jump the species barrier to generate a novel strain of pandemic potential

Fig. 2

A time line of major influenza pandemics and the responsible influenza strains

Fig. 3

A schematic diagram depicting the crucial steps of influenza virus infection