Influenza Infection in Wild Raccoons
Author Information
Author(s): Hall Jeffrey S., Bentler Kevin T., Landolt Gabrielle, Elmore Stacey A., Minnis Richard B., Campbell Tyler A., Barras Scott C., Root J. Jeffrey, Pilon John, Pabilonia Kristy, Driscoll Cindy, Slate Dennis, Sullivan Heather, McLean Robert G.
Primary Institution: US Department of Agriculture National Wildlife Research Center, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
Hypothesis
Can wild raccoons transmit avian and human influenza viruses?
Conclusion
Raccoons can become infected with avian and human influenza viruses and may play a significant role in their transmission.
Supporting Evidence
- Serosurveys showed that raccoons are exposed to avian influenza virus.
- Experimental infection studies demonstrated that raccoons can shed and transmit influenza viruses.
- Raccoons possess both avian and human type receptors for influenza viruses.
Takeaway
Raccoons can get sick from bird and human flu and might spread it to other animals and people.
Methodology
Blood samples were collected from wild raccoons across various states, and experimental infections were conducted to study viral shedding and immune response.
Limitations
The study did not systematically examine all wild mammalian species for exposure to AI.
Participant Demographics
Wild raccoons from various regions of the United States.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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