Abstract

PEREZ, Alberto A.; ZACCAGNINI, M. Elena  and  PEREDA, Ariel J.. Avian Influenza and its implications for the health of South American wild birds. Hornero [online]. 2011, vol.26, n.1, pp.29-44. ISSN 0073-3407.

Since 2003, Avian Influenza has spread rapidly throughout countries of Asia, Europe and Africa, resulting in serious consequences for the poultry industry, public health and the health of wild species. The role of wild birds in the maintenance and geographical expansion of the disease is a matter of uncertainty. There is very little information about the occurrence and ecology of Influenza A viruses in South American birds. In recent years, eight low pathogenic viral subtypes have been isolated from waterbirds (Anseriformes and Charadriiformes) in Argentina, Peru, Chile and Brazil. The mechanisms involved in their maintenance, the potential to evolve into highly pathogenic strains and the consequences of their circulation in the region are unknown. This article reviews aspects of current scientific knowledge about the eco-epidemiology of Avian Influenza, which may be useful for understanding the impact that this disease could have on the health and conservation of Neotropical wild avifauna.

Keywords : Avian Influenza; Eco-epidemiology; South America; Wild birds.

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