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Avian influenza virus infection: a selection of research interest

The recent spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza in the domestic and wild bird population has once again caused thoughts to turn to ongoing pandemic preparedness both in animals and humans. Here, Pathology in Practice Science Editor Brian Nation reviews a selection of current interest in this virus in the scientific literature.

A Brief Introduction to Avian Influenza Virus

Spackman E. Methods Mol Biol. 2020; 2123: 83–92. doi:10.1007/978-1-0716-0346-8_7.

The earliest recorded cases of what was likely high-pathogenicity AIV in poultry were reported in Italy in the 1870s. Avian influenza infection has been recognised in domestic poultry through the modern era of poultry production. Infection of poultry with either low pathogenic (LP) or highly pathogenic (HP) avian influenza viruses (AIVs) can result in substantial economic consequences. Productivity can be reduced directly and indirectly because of disease leading to decreased egg or meat yield, mortality, vaccination costs, and restricted trade. Aquatic birds are the natural hosts for AIV, and infection tends to be subclinical, although some strains of HPAIV can cause losses in domestic ducks. Biosecurity and vaccination are the most common methods of preventing infection of poultry. Approaches to AIV control vary widely, but elimination of the disease in poultry is a common goal. The basics of AIV biology, clinical disease, molecular aspects, and AIV detection are briefly reviewed.

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