MERS is a viral respiratory illness caused by MERS-CoV. Virus spreads through direct contact with camels. Limited human-to-human transmission possible. Most cases occur in or near Arabian Peninsula
Avian influenza is highly contagious viral disease affecting poultry and wild birds. Viruses are classified as high (HPAI) or low (LPAI) pathogenic. Wild birds serve as natural hosts and reservoirs for all types. LPAI infections may show mild symptoms, HPAI can cause severe disease
H5N1 is a subtype of influenza A virus causing bird flu. Virus spreads through bird droppings and can survive in water. Estimated half a billion farmed birds have been slaughtered. Can infect mammals including humans through bird contact
Avian influenza is highly contagious viral disease affecting birds worldwide. Divided into low (LPAI) and high (HPAI) pathogenicity categories. Viruses evolve rapidly with multiple subtypes like H5N1, H5N3, H5N8
MERS-CoV is an emerging zoonotic virus. Dromedary camels serve as the animal reservoir. Virus is considered emerging in the Middle East region
H5N1 has killed millions of wild birds and caused outbreaks in poultry and cows. 61 human cases reported in U.S. by end of 2024. First severe U.S. case linked to backyard poultry flock in Louisiana. First North American case of acute respiratory distress in British Columbia