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Avian influenza viruses affect both poultry production and public health. A subtype H5N8 (clade 2.3.4.4) virus, following an outbreak in poultry in South Korea in January 2014, rapidly spread worldwide in 2014–2015. Our analysis of H5N8 viral sequences, epidemiological investigations, waterfowl migration, and poultry trade showed that long-distance migratory birds can play a major role in the global spread of avian influenza viruses. Further, we found that the hemagglutinin of clade 2.3.4.4 virus was remarkably promiscuous, creating reassortants with multiple neuraminidase subtypes. Improving our understanding of the circumpolar circulation of avian influenza viruses in migratory waterfowl will help to provide early warning of threats from avian influenza to poultry, and potentially human, health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses issues related to increased use of antimicrobials in livestock which has been linked to drug-resistant infections in animals and humans. It is noted that the use of large quantity of antimicrobials in animal production is the primary driver for the accumulation of harmful resistance genes in the animal reservoir and there is an urgent need for global regulations on veterinary antimicrobial use.

The article focuses on a research related to trends in antimicrobial resistance in animals in low- and middle-income countries. It mentions that the reliance on antimicrobials to meet demand for animal protein is a likely threat to the sustainability of the livestock industry, and livelihood of farmers around the world. It also mentions that animals raised for food use the majority of antimicrobials sold on Earth.