First-time reconstruction of infectious bat influenza viruses

All known Influenza A viruses originate from aquatic birds that serve as virus reservoirs in nature. Avian viruses can cause severe disease and may lead to devastating pandemics when introduced into the human population. Therefore, a world-wide surveillance program has been set up to monitor influenza virus activity in birds. Surprisingly, bats were recently identified as a potential new source of influenza viruses.