An overview of H5n1 infection and its implications for dentistry

Abstract

The recent emergence of highly pathogenic H5N1 strains and the occurrence of human cases of H5N1 infection have prompted predictions of a pandemic-scale avian influenza viral infection among humans. Highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza viruses have become endemic among birds throughout the world, owing to the rapid carriage of H5N1 by migrating birds around the globe. In a relatively short period of time, H5N1 has acquired the ability to infect more mammalian species with fatal outcomes than any other influenza virus. So far, H5N1 has spread to more than 12 countries and its mortality rate reportedly exceeds 50%. It is difficult to predict when, whether, or which type of H5N1 influenza A virus will acquire efficient human-to-human transmission and lead to a pandemic, and the most important public health strategy at present therefore is to prevent the spread of the virus through the education of both health care workers and the general public. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge in H5N1 virology, its historical and epidemiological background, and clinical and hospital management strategies including those appertaining to dentistry. © 2008 Nova Science Publishers, Inc.