Avian Influenza Virus (H5N1) Replication in Feathers of Domestic Waterfowl

[Coleman]

Somewhere in the forum it was mentioned, that during the World War I feathers were imported for pillows for the army. But I can't find it again ...

http://www.cdc.gov/eid/content/14/1/149.htm

Abstract
We examined feathers of domestic ducks and geese inoculated with 2 different avian influenza virus (H5N1) genotypes. Together with virus isolation from the skin, the detection of viral antigens and ultrastructural observation of the virions in the feather epidermis raise the possibility of feathers as sources of infection.

 

[Laidback Al]

Re: Avian Influenza Virus (H5N1) Replication in Feathers of Domestic Waterfowl

Feathers have been implicated in human H5N1 infection of shuttlecock makers in May of 2006.

see this post:

http://www.flutrackers.com/forum/showthread.php?t=6168&page=2

And the shuttlecock market suffered an economic downturn in China in March of 2006 because of the culling of geese.

http://www.flutrackers.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2408