Avian Influenza in Wildlife. This talk will focus on the current state of scientific knowledge about highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 and wild birds, as well as summarize the findings of the joint federal-state program established in 2006 for the early detection of this virus in the United States' wild bird population. In 2005, H5N1 avian influenza spread rapidly across Asia from east to west. By March 2006, outbreaks were taking place among wild birds in Europe. While many speculated that wild birds alone were carrying the virus into new areas, the timing and direction of H5N1's spread across Asia did not correspond with any known wild bird migratory behavior. Evidence is beginning to suggest that a combination of factors have all contributed to the persistence and spread of HPAI H5N1: movements by infected wild birds, transportation of infected domestic birds, and uncontrolled interactions between wild and domestic birds. To minimize the adverse effects of HPAI, it is critical to detect its presence in a potential host population - whether wild bird or domestic poultry - early enough to mount an appropriate and effective response. Understanding the role of migratory birds in the spread of avian influenza viruses, the epidemiology of the avian influenza virus and its subtypes, and the exposure rates of various wild species are essential to future management of this disease. Dr. Susan D. Haseltine, U.S. Geological Survey. In session "Pandemic Influenza: Understanding the Threat and Organizing the Response." Friday, Feb. 16, 2007, 1:45-4:45 p.m., Hotel: Hilton San Francisco, Ballroom Level, Continental Ballroom 6.
http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/article.asp?ID=1622
http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/article.asp?ID=1622