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The fact that the H7N9 virus has only recently infected humans helps explain why

User Shahnur
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Answer:

Because the H7N9 avian virus acquired pathogenic mutations in order to infect mammalian hosts

Step-by-step explanation:

H7N9 is a subtype of influenza avian viruses that has recently been reported to infect humans. Fortunately, H7N9 has also been reported to have a low pathogenic level; however, mutations might change this level to become more infectious for humans. Consequently, mutations in a given H7N9 strain might enable its adaptation and higher affinity to human-type receptors, being more aggressive to human cells, especially in lung cells, since this virus is characterized by rapid progression and respiratory failure.

User Trancey
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