Ophthalmic Implications of Avian Influenza A H5N1

Year 2025, Volume: 7, 3 - 5, 31.12.2025

Harun Ağca

Abstract

The Orthomyxoviridae family comprises four genera of influenza viruses: influenza A, B, C, and D. Sporadic infections with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) virüs in human, with a severe case fatality of more than 50%, have been reported around the world over more than 20 years. In 2024, an influenza A H5N1 virus infection was diagnosed in a dairy worker in United States, with bilateral conjunctivitis. Influenza viruses lead to conjunctivitis, uveal disorders, retinal and neuro-ophthalmic complications. Personal protective equipment should be used when working directly or closely with sick or dead animals, animal tissues, bedding, raw milk. Handwashing before putting on and after taking off PPE plays a significant role in reducing the risk of infection.

Keywords

ophthalmic , influenza , infection

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