Gene-edited chickens are partially resistant to bird flu

Scientists from the University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute have successfully gene-edited chickens to make them partially resistant to the bird flu but experts argue that only full immunity can see the danger of the virus eradicated.

This is according to a report by BBC News published this week.

Influenza A viruses, which are responsible for causing bird flu, can be divided into many subtypes based on the surface proteins hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). While certain bird flu subtypes are less dangerous, others are more virulent and capable of causing serious illness.

Direct contact with diseased birds or with their droppings, saliva, or respiratory secretions is the main way that bird flu viruses are transmitted. In rare instances, the infection can spread through tainted food, water, gear, and clothing.