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05:59
Nasal Wipes for Influenza A Virus Detection and Isolation from Swine
Published on: December 4, 2015
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Avian influenza overview May - August 2018.
EFSA Journal. European Food Safety Authority
|July 7, 2020
Summary
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreaks in poultry and wild birds were reported in Europe. The risk of human infection from these avian influenza viruses remains very low.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Avian influenza (AI) surveillance in Europe detected outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N8) in poultry and A(H5N6) in wild birds between May and August 2018.
- Low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) outbreaks were also reported, consistent with seasonal patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report and analyze avian influenza outbreaks in Europe during a specific period.
- To assess the risk of zoonotic transmission to humans.
- To evaluate the potential for introduction and spread of AI viruses from non-EU countries.
Main Methods:
- Surveillance data collection on avian influenza outbreaks in poultry and wild birds.
- Epidemiological analysis of reported cases.
- Risk assessment for zoonotic transmission and intercontinental spread.
Main Results:
- Three HPAI A(H5N8) outbreaks in poultry and three HPAI A(H5N6) in wild birds were confirmed in Europe.
- LPAI outbreaks were also detected, with overall case numbers aligning with seasonal expectations.
- No human infections linked to circulating HPAI A(H5N8) or A(H5N6) viruses were reported; the risk to the general public is very low.
- HPAI outbreaks in Russia, including A(H5N2) and A(H5N8) viruses, pose a risk for introduction into the EU via wild bird migration.
- Increasing probability of AI introduction from non-EU countries, particularly Russia, due to upcoming fall migration and potential for virus survival in colder temperatures.
Conclusions:
- The observed avian influenza activity in Europe during the reporting period was within expected seasonal parameters.
- While the risk of zoonotic transmission is low, the potential for introduction and spread of HPAI viruses from Russia via wild birds is a significant concern.
- Environmental conditions in autumn and winter may enhance the survival and spread of introduced avian influenza viruses.
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