all low pathogenicity viruses, in domestic or captive wild birds, that have proven natural transmission to humans with severe consequences.all high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses, irrespective of their subtypes, detected in birds (domestic and wild).As such, national Veterinary Authorities must report: Putting in place accurate warning systems is thus essential to efficiently prevent and control the disease.īecause of its capacity to rapidly spread across regions, timely reporting of cases is key to enable countries to anticipate and get prepared for potential new outbreaks of avian influenza. The first line of defense against avian influenza is the early detection and reporting of disease outbreaks to allow a rapid response. Head of the WOAH Preparedness and Resilience DepartmentĪvian influenza outbreaks can have heavy consequences for the poultry industry, the health of wild birds, farmer’s livelihoods as well as international trade. The global impact of avian influenza Economic consequencesĪvian influenza can kill entire flocks of birds so this causes devastating losses for the farming sector Dr. Therefore, it is critical to limit their exposure to wild birds to lessen the risk of introduction of avian influenza into flocks.

Direct exposure of farmed birds to wild birds is a likely transmission route of the virus. The main wild species involved in the viral cycle of avian influenza are waterfowls, gulls, and shorebirds however, the virus seems to pass easily between different bird species. Wild birds also play a major role in avian influenza viruses evolution and maintenance during low seasons. When birds have little or no symptoms of the virus, it allows them to spread the viruses between neighbouring countries or over long distances, along their migratory pathways. Depending on the virus strain and the species of bird, the virus can be harmless or fatal to the wild bird. Within their respiratory or intestinal tracts, they can carry different avian influenza virus strains. Migratory wild birds, especially waterfowls, are the natural host and reservoir of avian influenza viruses. What role do wild birds play in the spread of avian influenza?

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