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Updated: Mar 8, 2026
08:46
Rapid Diagnosis of Avian Influenza Virus in Wild Birds: Use of a Portable rRT-PCR and Freeze-dried Reagents in the Field
Published on: August 2, 2011
16.1K
High pathogenicity avian influenza in pinniped conservation
Elizabeth Ashley1,2, Ralph Eric Thijl Vanstreels1, Michelle Barbieri2
1Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center, Institute of Pandemic, Davis, CA95616, USA.
Summary
High pathogenicity avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) are causing significant mortality in pinnipeds globally. This review synthesizes challenges and proposes integrating marine wildlife into HPAIV surveillance and control strategies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Wildlife Ecology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- High pathogenicity avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs), specifically H5Nx strains, have caused extensive disruptions since 2020.
- Pinnipeds exhibit higher mortality rates from H5Nx HPAIV compared to other mammalian taxa.
- HPAIV strains are spreading globally, reaching remote areas like the Southern Hemisphere and Hawaiian Islands, posing risks to vulnerable pinniped populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize the complexities of managing HPAIV in free-ranging marine mammals.
- To highlight knowledge and capacity gaps in HPAIV investigations within marine wildlife.
- To propose strategies for integrating pinnipeds and marine wildlife into HPAIV surveillance and conservation efforts.
Main Methods:
- This study is a review and perspective piece synthesizing existing data and expert knowledge.
- It analyzes lessons learned from past HPAIV outbreaks in marine wildlife.
- It discusses the incorporation of risk assessment and countermeasures into pinniped conservation plans.
Main Results:
- HPAIV poses a significant and growing threat to pinniped populations worldwide.
- Managing HPAIV in free-ranging marine mammals presents unique and substantial challenges.
- Current surveillance and control systems need enhancement to effectively include marine wildlife.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of HPAIV in pinnipeds requires addressing specific challenges related to marine environments.
- Integrating marine wildlife into broader HPAIV intelligence, control, and prevention systems is crucial.
- Proactive conservation strategies incorporating HPAIV risk assessment are necessary for endangered and isolated pinniped populations.
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