Novel Genotypes of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 Clade 2.3.4.4b Viruses, Germany, November 2023

Abstract

Several subtypes and many different genotypes of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses of subtype H5 clade 2.3.4.4b have repeatedly caused outbreaks in Germany. Four new highly pathogenic avian influenza genotypes emerged in November 2023 after reassortment with low pathogenicity precursors, replacing genotype BB, which had dominated in Europe since 2022.

Keywords

• influenza
• H5N1
• zoonoses
• highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses
• viruses
• respiratory infections