Surveillance of Avian Influenza in Wild Canids in Pennsylvania
Author Information
Author(s): Niedringhaus Kevin D., Chan Taylor C., McDowell Ashley, Maxwell Lauren, Stevens Madison, Potts Lane, Miller Erica, Anis Eman, Why Kyle Van, Keller Thomas, Stallknecht David, Poulson Rebecca L., Bahrs Kaitlyn, Brown Justin D., Cacciotto Carla, Coradduzza Elisabetta, Alberti Alberto
Primary Institution: Wildlife Futures Program, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of H5N1 avian influenza virus in wild canids in Pennsylvania?
Conclusion
Wild canids, especially juvenile red foxes, can be severely affected by H5N1 avian influenza, but widespread infection appears to be rare.
Supporting Evidence
- Five red fox kits tested positive for H5N1, indicating susceptibility.
- All pre-outbreak samples were seronegative for IAV.
- Two coyotes tested positive for IAV antibodies but negative for H5 and N1.
- Severe disease was observed in infected juvenile red foxes.
- Limited active surveillance data complicates understanding of H5N1 in wild canids.
Takeaway
This study looked at sick wild foxes in Pennsylvania to see if they had a bird flu virus. They found that while some got sick, most were healthy and didn't have the virus.
Methodology
The study involved testing blood samples from wild canids for antibodies to the influenza A virus and conducting PCR tests on carcasses for H5N1.
Potential Biases
There may be bias in the types of canids submitted for testing, as only those that were sick or dead were included.
Limitations
The study relied on opportunistic sampling, which may not accurately represent the overall population of wild canids.
Participant Demographics
The study included 41 wild canids, primarily red foxes and gray foxes, from Pennsylvania.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website