H2AFX

Influenza A virus subtype H10N7 is a subtype of the Influenza A virus, which is a member of the Orthomyxoviridae family. This particular subtype is known to infect both avian and mammalian species, including humans, although human infections are relatively rare.

Virology

Influenza A viruses are characterized by two surface proteins: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). The H10N7 subtype is defined by the presence of the H10 hemagglutinin and the N7 neuraminidase. These proteins play crucial roles in the virus's ability to infect host cells and in the release of new viral particles.

Hemagglutinin (H10)

The hemagglutinin protein is responsible for binding the virus to the host cell surface receptors, facilitating entry into the cell. The H10 subtype is one of the less common hemagglutinin subtypes in humans but is more frequently found in avian species.

Neuraminidase (N7)

Neuraminidase is involved in the release of progeny virus from infected cells, allowing the infection to spread. The N7 subtype is also less common in human infections compared to other neuraminidase subtypes like N1 and N2.

Epidemiology

H10N7 has been primarily identified in wild birds, particularly waterfowl, which are natural reservoirs for many influenza A subtypes. However, there have been sporadic outbreaks in domestic poultry and rare cases of human infection.

Human Infections

Human cases of H10N7 infection have been documented, though they are uncommon. Symptoms in humans can range from mild respiratory illness to more severe disease, depending on the individual's health and the specific strain of the virus.

Animal Infections

In birds, H10N7 can cause a range of symptoms from mild to severe, depending on the virulence of the strain and the species of bird. Outbreaks in poultry can lead to significant economic losses.

Prevention and Control

Preventing the spread of H10N7 involves monitoring avian populations for signs of infection and implementing biosecurity measures in poultry farms. Vaccination strategies are also being explored, although vaccines for H10N7 are not as widely available as those for more common subtypes like H1N1 or H3N2.

Research

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the molecular biology of H10N7, its transmission dynamics, and its potential to cause pandemics. Studies are also investigating the development of effective vaccines and antiviral treatments.

Also see

• Influenza A virus
• Hemagglutinin
• Neuraminidase
• Avian influenza
• Orthomyxoviridae