Enhanced Pathogenicity and Contact Transmissibility of Human-origin Avian Influenza H5N1 Clade 2.3.4.4b Genotype B3.13 Compared to D1.1 in Ferrets
Using the ferret model of influenza infection and transmission, it is demonstrated that the currently circulating B3.3.13 is already well adapted for mammalian infection and transmission whereas D1.1 rapidly acquires mammalian-adaptive mutations after a single infection and/or transmission event, highlighting its evolutionary potential.