University of Glasgow - Research - Research units A-Z - MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research - Impact & Open Data - Impact

H5N1 Avian Flu Outbreak Response

Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 is an evolving global threat, with implications for agriculture, food security and human health. This case study highlights how researchers in Glasgow are contributing critical evidence, tools and expertise to understand viral spread, assess zoonotic risk and inform national and international preparedness efforts.

How CVR Science Is Shaping the Response to H5N1

Avian influenza is no longer a distant threat confined to birds. As H5N1 avian influenza continues to evolve and cross species barriers, rapid, collaborative research is critical. In this video, CVR researchers reveal how their expertise is helping to track viral spread, assess risks to food safety and human health, and strengthen preparedness for emerging influenza threats.

Research Outputs

CVR researchers have produced key research outputs that address urgent questions around H5N1 and food safety. These studies examine how influenza viruses behave in milk, from testing whether standard pasteurisation reliably inactivates H5N1, to understanding how long the virus can remain infectious in ‘raw’ milk. These papers provide critical evidence to inform public health guidance, agricultural practice and risk mitigation, highlighting both the reassurance provided by pasteurisation and the potential zoonotic risks associated with unpasteurised milk.

Pasteurisation temperatures effectively inactivate influenza A viruses in milk

Stability of influenza viruses in the milk of cows and sheep (Pre-print)

Two people sit at a small round table in a glass-walled meeting room. One person works on a laptop while the other sits beside them, leaning forward with hands clasped as they talk.

Policy Contribution

This UKHSA risk assessment on H5N1 draws on cutting-edge evidence from across the UK, including research led by scientists in Glasgow. CVR expertise has helped shape understanding of viral spread, mammalian adaptation and food safety risks, directly informing national preparedness and public health decision-making.

UKHSA - Influenza A(H5N1) 2.3.4.4b B3.13: US cattle outbreak update

A person sits at a desk with a laptop open to a data analysis program showing several line graphs. Their hands are clasped in front of the keyboard.