Characterization of a Highly Pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus Isolated from Infected Cows and Its Potential for Mammalian Transmission

A highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus isolated from infected cow milk in the US exhibited systemic spread and tropism in mice and ferrets, as well as the ability to bind to human upper airway receptors, suggesting potential for increased mammalian infection and transmission.