Waterbirds are the main reservoir for low pathogenic avian influenza A viruses (LPAIV), from which occasional spillover to poultry occurs. When circulating among poultry, LPAIV may become highly pathogenic avian influenza A viruses (HPAIV). In recent years, the epidemiology of HPAIV viruses has changed drastically. HPAIV H5N1 are currently endemic among poultry in a number of countries. In addition, global spread of HPAIV H5N. x viruses has resulted in major outbreaks among wild birds and poultry worldwide. Using data collected during these outbreaks, the role of migratory birds as a vector became increasingly clear. Here we provide an overview of current data about various aspects of the changing role of wild birds in the epidemiology of avian influenza A viruses.

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doi.org/10.1016/bs.aivir.2017.10.007, hdl.handle.net/1765/103045
Advances in Virus Research
Erasmus MC: University Medical Center Rotterdam

Bodewes, R., & Kuiken, T. (2017). Changing Role of Wild Birds in the Epidemiology of Avian Influenza A Viruses. Advances in Virus Research. doi:10.1016/bs.aivir.2017.10.007