Novel Eurasian lineage avian influenza A(H5N8) virus has spread rapidly and globally since January 2014. In December 2014, H5N8 and reassortant H5N2 viruses were detected in wild birds in Washington, USA, and subsequently in backyard birds. When they infect commercial poultry, these highly pathogenic viruses pose substantial trade issues.
Keywords: A(H5N2); A(H5N8); H5N2; H5N8; HPAI; United States; highly pathogenic avian influenza virus; influenza; intercontinental transmission; reassortment; viruses; wild birds.