A new rapid molecular test for detecting the latest H5N1 avian influenza variants in cattle and recent human infections in Colorado has been developed by Alveo Technologies Inc. This test represents a significant advancement in the fight against bird flu, utilizing Alveo’s proprietary technology platform.
The company has confirmed through in silico analysis that their handheld, point-of-need molecular diagnostic can detect H5N1 variants based on genetic sequences from recent human cases in Colorado and infections found in cattle.
The Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) released the genetic sequence of the H5N1 virus from a dairy farm worker in Colorado on July 15 and 16, highlighting a concerning mammalian adaptation marker (E627K).
This marker suggests that cattle could be shedding a virus adapted to mammals, posing a risk of reintroducing the virus to commercial poultry or driving it toward further mammalian adaptation. Such a development increases the likelihood of H5N1 gaining the ability to spread more efficiently among humans.
According to a report by the UK Health Security Agency, the risk of H5N1 evolving to cause human transmission has increased from a previously remote chance to a higher probability, although precise risk levels remain uncertain.
Alveo Technologies underscores the critical importance of increased testing capacity for both animals and humans in combating emerging infectious diseases like avian influenza.
Alveo’s analysis of their Avian influenza A subtype H5 LAMP designs against recent human and bovine sequences from GISAID showed that their test could detect all 12 reported emerging H5 sequences. These results support the efficacy of Alveo’s LAMP Avian influenza assay in identifying clade 4.3.4.4b, H5N1 variants, including those infecting humans.
The company plans to begin shipping its Flockscreen LAMP Avian Influenza Molecular Test for poultry to Europe and the Middle East by the third quarter of 2024, pending regulatory validation and verification.
Shaun Holt, CEO of Alveo Technologies, emphasized the urgent need for rapid, precise diagnostics to prevent H5N1 from evolving into a virus that spreads efficiently among humans. Alveo’s portable molecular testing platform aims to provide accurate results quickly, supporting limited laboratory resources and capacity.
The company’s efforts, including partnerships for accessing field samples and rigorous product development, position them at the forefront of intersecting human, animal, and food health, making molecular detection and diagnostics more accessible across various settings.
