Avian Influenza Viruses in Ducks in Northwestern Minnesota
Author Information
Author(s): Benjamin R. Wilcox, Gregory A. Knutsen, James Berdeen, Virginia Goekjian, Rebecca Poulson, Sagar Goyal, Srinand Sreevatsan, Carol Cardona, Roy D. Berghaus, David E. Swayne, Michael J. Yabsley, David E. Stallknecht
Primary Institution: The University of Georgia
Hypothesis
What are the spatial and temporal variations in prevalence and subtype diversity of avian influenza viruses in ducks?
Conclusion
The study found that avian influenza virus prevalence in ducks peaked in late summer, with significant differences in subtype diversity between years.
Supporting Evidence
- AIV was detected in 222 (9.1%) of 2,441 ducks in 2007 and in 438 (17.9%) of 2,452 ducks in 2008.
- Prevalence of AIV peaked in late summer.
- Ten hemagglutinin (HA) subtypes were detected each year.
- Juvenile mallards were almost three times more likely to be infected than adults.
Takeaway
Ducks in Minnesota can get sick from a virus called avian influenza, especially in late summer when many of them gather together.
Methodology
Ducks were sampled using cloacal swabs from July to October in 2007 and 2008, and AIV was isolated and subtyped.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the sampling methods and the specific locations chosen for the study.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be applicable to other regions or species not represented in the sample.
Participant Demographics
The study primarily involved mallards, with juvenile mallards comprising 39.6% of the total sample.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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