Genetic characterization of highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N8) virus isolated from domestic geese in Iraq, 2018

Abstract Background Influenza viruses are a continuous threat to avian and mammalian species, causing epidemics pandemics. After the circulation of H5N1 in 2006, 2015, 2016 Iraq, an H5N8 influenza virus emerged domestic geese Sulaymaniyah Province, Iraq. This study analyzed genetic characteristics Iraqi viruses. Results An HPAI subtype was identified from backyard Kurdistan Region, north Phylogenic analyses hemagglutinin (HA) neuraminidase (NA) genes indicated that Iraq belonged clade 2.3.4.4 group B clustered with isolates Iran, Israel, Belgium. Genetic analysis HA gene molecular markers for avian-type receptors. Characterization NA showed had sensitive antiviral drugs. Conclusions is first ever on it crucial understand epidemiology Middle East. The results suggest possible role migratory birds introduction into