More than 1,400 experts have visited Brisbane for the world's only scientific meeting dedicated to influenza. OPTIONS XII for the Control of Influenza, run by the International Society for Influenza and Respiratory Virus Diseases, was held over 4 days showcasing new data and knowledge from world-leading scientists and researchers. Speakers from The University of Queensland included Professor Paul Young and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Engagement) Professor Bronwyn Fredericks.
Leading virologist Associate Professor Kirsty Short from UQ's School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences was the Conference Chair. Here she shares her top 5 takeaways: 1. H5N1 influenza and the dairy industry "Australia is anticipating the arrival of H5N1 influenza, or 'bird flu', this spring, " Dr Short said.
"There's been a lot of focus on the potential impact on poultry, wildlife and human health, but little discussion of what it could mean for Australia's $6-billion dairy cattle industry. "This year H5N1 was identified in US dairy cattle, as well as multiple cases of human infection. "The conference heard from US experts about the virus targeting the cow's mammary glands and shedding high amounts of virus in the milk, which has implications for people who consume unpasteurised milk.
" 2. Long COVID "We still don't know what causes long COVID, and there's no proper diagnostic guidelines or treatment available," Dr Short said. "Among the new data presented at the conference was a significant as.