Inactivated H5 antigens of H5N8 protect chickens from lethal infections by the highly pathogenic H5N8 and H5N6 avian influenza viruses

Abstract

Introduction: Highly pathogenic Asian H5-subtype avian influenza viruses have been found in poultry and wild birds worldwide since they were first detected in southern China in 1996. Extensive control efforts have not eradicated them. Vaccination prevents such viruses infecting poultry and reduces the number lost to compulsory slaughter. The study showed the efficacy of inactivated H5 vaccine from the H5N8 virus against highly pathogenic H5N8 and H5N6 avian influenza viruses in chickens.

Keywords

• chickens
• avian influenza
• h5n6
• h5n8
• vaccine