Abstract
Influenza viruses in its pathogenic form can cause high mortality in wild birds. Raptors may be at risk, particularly those that feed on other birdsWe will investigate pgrine falcon and white-tailed eagle for the presence of current and past infections of AIV. By faecal and blood samples from raptors and screening for present and past infections of AIV we will compare the gene pool in those with the AIV found in ducks and other prey birds. We will screen and identify the virus-host cell receptor-binding capacity in a array of bird species to identify difference between groups of birds at risk of acquiring AIV infections. Presence of receptors are determined by imunhistochemistry in tissue from the respiratory and the gastrointestinal tract. This will give insights which species that may developing acute systematic illness. Finally, we will study the fitness effects of low pathogenic influenza viruses in mallards in an experimental setting and contrast this data with data from populations sampled at Ottenby Birdobservatory. Eperiments by implanting transponders to study body temperature, heart function and blood pressure as parameters in mallards infected with different subtypes will be evaluated in different stages of infection. These projects will give knowledge that can be used for risk assessment. The H5N1 is originating in domestic animals but may have large consequences for wild animals and for biodiversity by its potential effects in complex ecosystems.
Sweden