The Quiet Threat: Could Influenza D Be the Next Pandemic?
For years, public health officials have focused on influenza A and B, and more recently, COVID-19. But a lesser-known influenza virus, designated Influenza D, is quietly gaining attention among scientists as a potential pandemic threat. Emerging alongside canine coronavirus HuPn-2018, this virus is raising concerns due to its ability to evolve rapidly and its potential to jump to humans.
What is Influenza D and Why Should We Care?
First identified in 2011, Influenza D primarily infects pigs and cattle. However, it’s similarly been detected in a surprisingly wide range of animals, including poultry, deer, giraffes, and even kangaroos. While currently causing no apparent symptoms in humans – these infections are considered “subclinical” – researchers warn that this could change quickly. The virus shares characteristics with those that have triggered past pandemics, making it a prime candidate for rapid evolution.
The economic impact of Influenza D is already being felt. It’s believed to contribute significantly to bovine respiratory disease, costing the U.S. Cattle industry an estimated $1 billion annually. This economic burden underscores the virus’s potential for widespread impact, even before considering potential human infections.
Human Exposure is Already Happening
Studies have revealed a surprisingly high level of exposure among those who work closely with livestock. Research in Colorado and Florida showed that up to 97% of cattle workers carried antibodies against Influenza D, indicating prior exposure. This suggests that the virus is already circulating within human populations, even if it isn’t currently causing noticeable illness.
Canine Coronavirus: Another Emerging Threat
Influenza D isn’t the only emerging respiratory virus on the radar. Canine coronavirus HuPn-2018 is also drawing concern. Like Influenza D, it originates in animals and has the potential to cause epidemics, but diagnostics and surveillance are currently lacking. Both viruses highlight a critical gap in our preparedness for future pandemics.
The Evolution Factor: Why Rapid Evolution Matters
Scientists emphasize that Influenza D “bears the hallmarks of a virus primed to rapidly evolve.” In other words it has the genetic characteristics that allow it to quickly adapt and potentially overcome human immunity. If the virus develops the ability to transmit easily from person to person, the consequences could be severe, potentially leading to widespread epidemics or even a pandemic.
The concern isn’t just theoretical. A recent strain of Influenza D isolated in China has already demonstrated the capacity for human-to-human transmission, a critical step in the pandemic process.
What’s Being Done? And What Needs to Happen?
Currently, surveillance and diagnostic capabilities for both Influenza D and canine coronavirus are limited. Researchers are calling for increased investment in these areas to better understand the viruses’ spread, monitor their evolution, and develop potential treatments and preventative measures. Improved surveillance is crucial to detect outbreaks early and implement effective control strategies.
The lack of existing immunity in the human population is another significant concern. Most people have no pre-existing antibodies against these viruses, making the entire population susceptible to infection should the viruses grow easily transmissible.
FAQ
Q: Is Influenza D currently causing illness in humans?
A: Not yet. Current infections are subclinical, meaning they don’t cause noticeable symptoms.
Q: How is Influenza D spread?
A: Primarily through close contact with infected animals, particularly pigs and cattle.
Q: What can be done to prevent a potential pandemic?
A: Increased surveillance, improved diagnostics, and research into potential treatments are crucial.
Q: Is canine coronavirus as concerning as Influenza D?
A: Yes, both viruses pose a potential threat and require increased attention and research.
Explore Further: Learn more about emerging infectious diseases at the CDC’s Emerging Infectious Diseases journal.
Join the Conversation: What are your thoughts on the potential threat of Influenza D? Share your comments below!
