27 March 2023
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Concerns about an H5N1 avian influenza pandemic have been renewed following some of the largest ever outbreaks of H5N1 in wild and farmed animals around the world. During 2021-22, outbreaks of a novel strain of H5N1 led to the deaths of over 100 million infected and potentially infected birds. Documented infections in dozens of mammalian species provide evidence both that the strain can jump from birds to mammals, and be transmitted between mammals, raising concerns about impacts on human health. This seminar, was chaired by Helen Branswell, with contributions from Lyle Fearnley, Ngo Thi Hoa, and Ross Upshur explored the distinctive ethical questions and considerations raised by an avian influenza pandemic and discuss priorities for ethical preparedness.