Re: More H5 and N1 detected in DE
I too would like to know this. Dr. Niman?...anyone?
The local labs that perform initial testing for avian influenza in live or dead birds take samples from feces or from throat swabs and then use a rapid test PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to look for H5 or H7 or N1 viruses. Within three to six hours they can detect these viruses, but cannot tell for certain whether they are the highly pathogenic variety. The PCR tests are fairly sensitive and can pick up both low volumes of virus, as well as inactive viruses.
Isolation of the virus (step two confirmation) is performed only at the USDA's National Veterinary Services Lab in Ames, Iowa. It is Biosecure Level 3. It injects the viral samples into embryonted chicken eggs and within seven to ten days can "grow" the virus if it was in large enough quantities and was active. Analysis from the virus cultures (if they were successful in the isolation process) can specifically determine the virus strain (eg H5N1), but only subsequent viral sequencing can spot the poly basic amino acids at the HA clevage site which would represent the high path variety virus.
Having said that, to Dr. Niman's point, one really has to want to find these viruses. It takes diligence because the process is not all that simple and subject to a lot of problems along the way. I would be concerned that an agency whose primary job is to protect the beef and poultry industry might lack a certain level of independence necessary to seek out and find a virus that could cause significant economic disruption to the very food industry that it supports. To my point, please note the following excerpt from the USDA's strategic plans:
"USDA has created a strategic plan to implement its vision. The framework of this plan depends on these key activities: expanding markets for agricultural products and support international economic development, further developing alternative markets for agricultural products and activities, providing financing needed to help expand job opportunities and improve housing, utilities and infrastructure in rural America..."
