UBC study: BC bird flu mutations actually weakened human infectivity

A UBC study in Nature Communications found genetic mutations in Canada's only human H5N1 case (a BC teen, 2023-24) actually reduced the virus's ability to bind human cell receptors, contradicting earlier fears of adaptation. Researchers using cryo-electron microscopy found the mutated virus could still fuse with lung cells inefficiently, possibly explaining the severe illness despite weak binding.

Why it matters: Suggests H5N1 is not currently evolving toward easier human transmission, easing near-term pandemic-risk concerns for poultry operations.

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