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Reid SM, Byrne AMP, Lean FZX, Ross CS, Pascu A, Hepple R, Dominguez M, Frost S, Coward VJ, Núñez A, James J, Stephan L, Aegerter JN, Brown IH, Banyard AC. A multi-species, multi-pathogen avian viral disease outbreak event: Investigating potential for virus transmission at the wild bird - poultry interface. Emerg Microbes Infect 2024; 13:2348521. [PMID: 38686548 PMCID: PMC11168234 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2024.2348521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
A free-range organic broiler (Gallus gallus domesticus) premises in Staffordshire was infected by high pathogenicity avian influenza virus (HPAIV) H5N8 during the 2020-2021 epizootic in the United Kingdom (UK). Following initial confirmation of the infection in poultry, multiple wild bird species were seen scavenging on chicken carcasses. Detected dead wild birds were subsequently demonstrated to have been infected and succumbed to HPAIV H5N8. Initially, scavenging species, magpie (Pica pica) and raven (Corvus corax) were found dead on the premises but over the following days, buzzards (Buteo buteo) were also found dead within the local area with positive detection of HPAIV in submitted carcasses. The subacute nature of microscopic lesions within a buzzard was consistent with the timeframe of infection. Finally, a considerable number of free-living pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) were also found dead in the surrounding area, with carcasses having higher viral antigen loads compared to infected chickens. Limited virus dissemination was observed in the carcasses of the magpie, raven, and buzzard. Further, an avirulent avian paramyxovirus type 1 (APMV-1) was detected within poultry samples as well as in the viscera of a magpie infected with HPAIV. Immunohistochemistry did not reveal colocalization of avian paramyxovirus antigens with lesions, supporting an avirulent APMV-1 infection. Overall, this case highlights scenarios in which bi-directional transmission of avian viral diseases between commercial and wild bird species may occur. It also underlines the importance of bio separation and reduced access when infection pressure from HPAIV is high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott M. Reid
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Weybridge, Addlestone, UK
| | - Alexander M. P. Byrne
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Weybridge, Addlestone, UK
| | - Fabian Z. X. Lean
- Pathology and Animal Sciences Department, APHA Weybridge, Addlestone, UK
| | - Craig S. Ross
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Weybridge, Addlestone, UK
| | - Andrei Pascu
- APHA England Field Delivery, APHA Stafford, Stafford, UK
| | | | | | | | - Vivien J. Coward
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Weybridge, Addlestone, UK
| | - Alejandro Núñez
- Pathology and Animal Sciences Department, APHA Weybridge, Addlestone, UK
| | - Joe James
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Weybridge, Addlestone, UK
- WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, APHA Weybridge, Addlestone, UK
| | - Levon Stephan
- Veterinary Exotic Notifiable Disease Unit (VENDU), London, UK
| | | | - Ian H. Brown
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Weybridge, Addlestone, UK
- WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, APHA Weybridge, Addlestone, UK
| | - Ashley C. Banyard
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Weybridge, Addlestone, UK
- WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, APHA Weybridge, Addlestone, UK
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2
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Falchieri M, Reid SM, Dastderji A, Cracknell J, Warren CJ, Mollett BC, Peers-Dent J, Schlachter ALD, Mcginn N, Hepple R, Thomas S, Ridout S, Quayle J, Pizzi R, Núñez A, Byrne AMP, James J, Banyard AC. Rapid mortality in captive bush dogs ( Speothos venaticus) caused by influenza A of avian origin (H5N1) at a wildlife collection in the United Kingdom. Emerg Microbes Infect 2024; 13:2361792. [PMID: 38828793 PMCID: PMC11155434 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2024.2361792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Europe has suffered unprecedented epizootics of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 since Autumn 2021. As well as impacting upon commercial and wild avian species, the virus has also infected mammalian species more than ever observed previously. Mammalian species involved in spill over events have primarily been scavenging terrestrial carnivores and farmed mammalian species although marine mammals have also been affected. Alongside reports of detections of mammalian species found dead through different surveillance schemes, several mass mortality events have been reported in farmed and wild animals. In November 2022, an unusual mortality event was reported in captive bush dogs (Speothos venaticus) with clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 HPAIV of avian origin being the causative agent. The event involved an enclosure of 15 bush dogs, 10 of which succumbed during a nine-day period with some dogs exhibiting neurological disease. Ingestion of infected meat is proposed as the most likely infection route.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Falchieri
- Influenza and Avian Virology Team, Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
| | - Scott M. Reid
- Influenza and Avian Virology Team, Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
| | - Akbar Dastderji
- Mammalian Virology Investigation Unit, Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
| | | | - Caroline J. Warren
- Influenza and Avian Virology Team, Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
| | - Benjamin C. Mollett
- Influenza and Avian Virology Team, Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
| | - Jacob Peers-Dent
- Influenza and Avian Virology Team, Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
| | - Audra-Lynne D. Schlachter
- Department of Pathology and Animal Sciences, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
| | - Natalie Mcginn
- Influenza and Avian Virology Team, Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
| | - Richard Hepple
- APHA Field Epidemiology Team, APHA Bridgwater, Rivers House, East Quay, Bridgwater, UK
| | - Saumya Thomas
- Influenza and Avian Virology Team, Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
| | - Susan Ridout
- APHA Field Epidemiology Team, APHA Hornbeam House, Electra Way, Crewe, Cheshire, UK
| | | | | | - Alejandro Núñez
- Department of Pathology and Animal Sciences, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
| | - Alexander M. P. Byrne
- Influenza and Avian Virology Team, Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
- Worldwide Influenza Centre, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Joe James
- Influenza and Avian Virology Team, Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
- WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
| | - Ashley C. Banyard
- Influenza and Avian Virology Team, Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
- WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Addlestone, UK
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3
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Shemmings-Payne W, De Silva D, Warren CJ, Thomas S, Slomka MJ, Reid SM, James J, Banyard AC, Brown IH, Ward AI. Repeatability and reproducibility of hunter-harvest sampling for avian influenza virus surveillance in Great Britain. Res Vet Sci 2024; 173:105279. [PMID: 38704977 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Emerging pathogens can threaten human and animal health, necessitating reliable surveillance schemes to enable preparedness. We evaluated the repeatability and reproducibility of a method developed previously during a single year at one study site. Hunter-harvested ducks and geese were sampled for avian influenza virus at three discrete locations in the UK. H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAIV) was detected in four species (mallard [Anas platyrhynchos], Eurasian teal [Anas crecca], Eurasian wigeon [Mareca penelope] and pink-footed goose [Anser brachyrhynchus]) across all three locations and two non-HPAIV H5N1, influenza A positive detections were made from a mallard and Eurasian wigeon at two locations. Virus was detected within 1-to-4 days of sampling at every location. Application of rapid diagnostic methods to samples collected from hunter-harvested waterfowl offers potential as an early warning system for the surveillance and monitoring of emerging and existing strains of avian influenza A viruses in key avian species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dilhani De Silva
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Caroline J Warren
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Saumya Thomas
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Marek J Slomka
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Scott M Reid
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Joe James
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Ashley C Banyard
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Ian H Brown
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
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4
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Lean FZX, Falchieri M, Furman N, Tyler G, Robinson C, Holmes P, Reid SM, Banyard AC, Brown IH, Man C, Núñez A. Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 infection in skua and gulls in the United Kingdom, 2022. Vet Pathol 2024; 61:421-431. [PMID: 38140946 DOI: 10.1177/03009858231217224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The reemergence of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) subtype H5N1 in the United Kingdom in 2021-2022 has caused unprecedented epizootic events in wild birds and poultry. During the summer of 2022, there was a shift in virus transmission dynamics resulting in increased HPAIV infection in seabirds, and consequently, a profound impact on seabird populations. To understand the pathological impact of HPAIV in seabirds, we evaluated the virus antigen distribution and associated pathological changes in the tissues of great skua (Stercorarius skua, n = 8), long-tailed skua (Stercorarius longicaudus, n = 1), European herring gull (Larus argentatus, n = 5), and black-headed gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus, n = 4), which succumbed to natural infection of HPAIV during the summer of 2022. Cases were collected from Shetland, including Scatness (mainland), No Ness (mainland), Clumlie (mainland), Hermaness (island), Fair Isle (island), Noss (island), and the West Midlands, South East, and South West of England. Grossly, gizzard ulceration was observed in one great skua and pancreatic necrosis was observed in 4 herring gulls, with intralesional viral antigen detected subsequently. Microscopical analysis revealed neuro-, pneumo-, lymphoid-, and cardiomyotropism of HPAIV H5N1, with the most common virus-associated pathological changes being pancreatic and splenic necrosis. Examination of the reproductive tract of the great skua revealed HPAIV-associated oophoritis and salpingitis, and virus replication within the oviductal epithelium. The emergence of HPAIV in seabirds Stercorariidae and Laridae, particularly during summer 2022, has challenged the dogma of HPAIV dynamics, posing a significant threat to wild bird life with potential implications for the reproductive performance of seabirds of conservation importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Z X Lean
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, UK
- Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Paul Holmes
- APHA Shrewsbury Veterinary Investigation Centre, UK
| | | | | | - Ian H Brown
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, UK
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5
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Acevedo-Rodriguez JG, Zamudio C, Kojima N, Krapp F, Tsukayama P, Sal Y Rosas Celi VG, Baldeon D, Neciosup-Vera CS, Medina C, Gonzalez-Lagos E, Castro L, Fowlkes A, Azziz-Baumgartner E, Gotuzzo E. Influenza incidence, lineages, and vaccine effectiveness estimates in Lima, Peru, 2023. THE LANCET. MICROBE 2024; 5:e308-e309. [PMID: 38219756 DOI: 10.1016/s2666-5247(23)00392-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Carlos Zamudio
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima 15102, Peru
| | - Noah Kojima
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Fiorella Krapp
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima 15102, Peru
| | - Pablo Tsukayama
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima 15102, Peru
| | | | - Dante Baldeon
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima 15102, Peru
| | | | - Carlos Medina
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima 15102, Peru
| | - Elsa Gonzalez-Lagos
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima 15102, Peru
| | - Laura Castro
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ashley Fowlkes
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Eduardo Gotuzzo
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima 15102, Peru.
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6
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Lagan P, Hamil M, Cull S, Hanrahan A, Wregor RM, Lemon K. Swine influenza A virus infection dynamics and evolution in intensive pig production systems. Virus Evol 2024; 10:veae017. [PMID: 38476866 PMCID: PMC10930190 DOI: 10.1093/ve/veae017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Swine influenza A virus (swIAV) is one of the main viral pathogens responsible for respiratory disease in farmed pigs. While outbreaks are often epidemic in nature, increasing reports suggest that continuous, endemic infection of herds is now common. The move towards larger herd sizes and increased intensification in the commercial pig industry may promote endemic infection; however, the impact that intensification has on swIAV infection dynamics and evolution is unclear. We carried out a longitudinal surveillance study for over 18 months on two enzootically infected, intensive, indoor, and multi-site pig production flows. Frequent sampling of all production stages using individual and group sampling methods was performed, followed by virological and immunological testing and whole-genome sequencing. We identified weaned pigs between 4 and 12-weeks old as the main reservoir of swIAV in the production flows, with continuous, year-round infection. Despite the continuous nature of viral circulation, infection levels were not uniform, with increasing exposure at the herd level associated with reduced viral prevalence followed by subsequent rebound infection. A single virus subtype was maintained on each farm for the entire duration of the study. Viral evolution was characterised by long periods of stasis punctuated by periods of rapid change coinciding with increasing exposure within the herd. An accumulation of mutations in the surface glycoproteins consistent with antigenic drift was observed, in addition to amino acid substitutions in the internal gene products as well as reassortment exchange of internal gene segments from newly introduced strains. These data demonstrate that long-term, continuous infection of herds with a single subtype is possible and document the evolutionary mechanisms utilised to achieve this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Lagan
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, 12 Stoney Road, Belfast BT4 3SD, Northern Ireland
| | - Michael Hamil
- JMW Farms Ltd., 50 Hamiltonsbawn Road, Armagh BT60 1HW, Northern Ireland
| | - Susan Cull
- Craigavon Area Hospital, 68 Lurgan Road, Craigavon BT63 5QQ, Northern Ireland
| | - Anthony Hanrahan
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland
| | - Rosanna M Wregor
- JMW Farms Ltd., 50 Hamiltonsbawn Road, Armagh BT60 1HW, Northern Ireland
| | - Ken Lemon
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, 12 Stoney Road, Belfast BT4 3SD, Northern Ireland
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7
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Fair JM, Al-Hmoud N, Alrwashdeh M, Bartlow AW, Balkhamishvili S, Daraselia I, Elshoff A, Fakhouri L, Javakhishvili Z, Khoury F, Muzyka D, Ninua L, Tsao J, Urushadze L, Owen J. Transboundary determinants of avian zoonotic infectious diseases: challenges for strengthening research capacity and connecting surveillance networks. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1341842. [PMID: 38435695 PMCID: PMC10907996 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1341842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
As the climate changes, global systems have become increasingly unstable and unpredictable. This is particularly true for many disease systems, including subtypes of highly pathogenic avian influenzas (HPAIs) that are circulating the world. Ecological patterns once thought stable are changing, bringing new populations and organisms into contact with one another. Wild birds continue to be hosts and reservoirs for numerous zoonotic pathogens, and strains of HPAI and other pathogens have been introduced into new regions via migrating birds and transboundary trade of wild birds. With these expanding environmental changes, it is even more crucial that regions or counties that previously did not have surveillance programs develop the appropriate skills to sample wild birds and add to the understanding of pathogens in migratory and breeding birds through research. For example, little is known about wild bird infectious diseases and migration along the Mediterranean and Black Sea Flyway (MBSF), which connects Europe, Asia, and Africa. Focusing on avian influenza and the microbiome in migratory wild birds along the MBSF, this project seeks to understand the determinants of transboundary disease propagation and coinfection in regions that are connected by this flyway. Through the creation of a threat reduction network for avian diseases (Avian Zoonotic Disease Network, AZDN) in three countries along the MBSF (Georgia, Ukraine, and Jordan), this project is strengthening capacities for disease diagnostics; microbiomes; ecoimmunology; field biosafety; proper wildlife capture and handling; experimental design; statistical analysis; and vector sampling and biology. Here, we cover what is required to build a wild bird infectious disease research and surveillance program, which includes learning skills in proper bird capture and handling; biosafety and biosecurity; permits; next generation sequencing; leading-edge bioinformatics and statistical analyses; and vector and environmental sampling. Creating connected networks for avian influenzas and other pathogen surveillance will increase coordination and strengthen biosurveillance globally in wild birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanne M. Fair
- Genomics and Bioanalytics, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM, United States
| | - Nisreen Al-Hmoud
- Bio-Safety and Bio-Security Center, Royal Scientific Society, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mu’men Alrwashdeh
- Bio-Safety and Bio-Security Center, Royal Scientific Society, Amman, Jordan
| | - Andrew W. Bartlow
- Genomics and Bioanalytics, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM, United States
| | | | - Ivane Daraselia
- Center of Wildlife Disease Ecology, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | | | | | - Zura Javakhishvili
- Center of Wildlife Disease Ecology, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Fares Khoury
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, American University of Madaba, Madaba, Jordan
| | - Denys Muzyka
- National Scientific Center, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Kharkiv, Ukraine
| | | | - Jean Tsao
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Lela Urushadze
- National Center for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC) of Georgia, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Jennifer Owen
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
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Nagy A, Stará M, Černíková L, Kličková E, Horák O, Hofmannová L, Sedlák K. Enzootic Circulation, Massive Gull Mortality and Poultry Outbreaks during the 2022/2023 High-Pathogenicity Avian Influenza H5N1 Season in the Czech Republic. Viruses 2024; 16:221. [PMID: 38399998 PMCID: PMC10892573 DOI: 10.3390/v16020221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In 2022/2023, Europe experienced its third consecutive season of high-pathogenicity avian influenza. During this period, the Czech Republic was again severely affected. For the first time, the number of culled birds approached one million, which was three times higher than in previous seasons. In parallel to the outbreaks in poultry, mass die-offs of gulls were also observed. In the present study, we performed whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of 137 H5N1 strains collected in the Czech Republic in 2022/2023 (94.6% of all outbreaks or locations). The analysis revealed four distinct genotypes: AB, CH, BB and AF. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that the AF genotype persisted from the previous H5N1 season without reassortment. In addition, the genotype BB, which was detected mainly in gulls, showed a noticeable strain diversity at the local level. This virus was also responsible for a single outbreak in commercially bred turkeys. Finally, an interesting spatio-temporal cluster with three co-circulating H5N1 genotypes, AB, CH and AF, was identified with no evidence of intrasubtype reassortment. Highly sensitive molecular surveillance and the timely sharing of genomic sequences and associated metadata could greatly assist in tracking the spread and detecting molecular changes associated with the increased virulence of this potentially zoonotic pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Nagy
- State Veterinary Institute Prague, Sídlištní 136/24, 165 03 Prague, Czech Republic; (M.S.); (L.Č.); (E.K.); (O.H.); (L.H.); (K.S.)
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9
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Ross CS, Byrne AMP, Mahmood S, Thomas S, Reid S, Freath L, Griffin LR, Falchieri M, Holmes P, Goldsmith N, Shaw JM, MacGugan A, Aegerter J, Hansen R, Brown IH, Banyard AC. Genetic Analysis of H5N1 High-Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Virus following a Mass Mortality Event in Wild Geese on the Solway Firth. Pathogens 2024; 13:83. [PMID: 38251390 PMCID: PMC10818813 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13010083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The United Kingdom (UK) and Europe have seen successive outbreaks of H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b high-pathogenicity avian influenza virus (HPAIV) since 2020 peaking in the autumn/winter periods. During the 2021/22 season, a mass die-off event of Svalbard Barnacle Geese (Branta leucopsis) was observed on the Solway Firth, a body of water on the west coast border between England and Scotland. This area is used annually by Barnacle Geese to over-winter, before returning to Svalbard to breed. Following initial identification of HPAIV in a Barnacle Goose on 8 November 2021, up to 32% of the total Barnacle Goose population may have succumbed to disease by the end of March 2022, along with other wild bird species in the area. Potential adaptation of the HPAIV to the Barnacle Goose population within this event was evaluated. Whole-genome sequencing of thirty-three HPAIV isolates from wild bird species demonstrated that there had been two distinct incursions of the virus, but the two viruses had remained genetically stable within the population, whilst viruses from infected wild birds were closely related to those from poultry cases occurring in the same region. Analysis of sera from the following year demonstrated that a high percentage (76%) of returning birds had developed antibodies to H5 AIV. This study demonstrates genetic stability of this strain of HPAIV in wild Anseriformes, and that, at the population scale, whilst there is a significant impact on survival, a high proportion of birds recover following infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig S. Ross
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
| | | | - Sahar Mahmood
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Saumya Thomas
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Scott Reid
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Lorna Freath
- Animal Health and Welfare Advice, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
| | | | - Marco Falchieri
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Paul Holmes
- APHA Diseases of Wildlife Scheme, Shrewsbury Veterinary Investigation Centre, Shrewsbury SY1 4HD, UK
| | | | | | | | - James Aegerter
- National Wildlife Management Centre, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), York YO41 1LZ, UK
| | - Rowena Hansen
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
- Animal Health and Welfare Advice, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Ian H. Brown
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
- WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Swine Influenza and Newcastle Disease, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Ashley C. Banyard
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
- WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Swine Influenza and Newcastle Disease, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
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10
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Seekings AH, Liang Y, Warren CJ, Hjulsager CK, Thomas SS, Lean FZX, Nunez A, Skinner P, Selden D, Falchieri M, Simmons H, Brown IH, Larsen LE, Banyard AC, Slomka MJ. Transmission dynamics and pathogenesis differ between pheasants and partridges infected with clade 2.3.4.4b H5N8 and H5N1 high-pathogenicity avian influenza viruses. J Gen Virol 2024; 105. [PMID: 38289661 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
During the UK 2020-2021 epizootic of H5Nx clade 2.3.4.4b high-pathogenicity avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs), high mortality occurred during incursions in commercially farmed common pheasants (Phasianus colchicus). Two pheasant farms, affected separately by H5N8 and H5N1 subtypes, included adjacently housed red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa), which appeared to be unaffected. Despite extensive ongoing epizootics, H5Nx HPAIV partridge outbreaks were not reported during 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 in the UK, so it is postulated that partridges are more resistant to HPAIV infection than other gamebirds. To assess this, pathogenesis and both intra- and inter-species transmission of UK pheasant-origin H5N8-2021 and H5N1-2021 HPAIVs were investigated. Onward transmission to chickens was also assessed to better understand the risk of spread from gamebirds to other commercial poultry sectors. A lower infectious dose was required to infect pheasants with H5N8-2021 compared to H5N1-2021. However, HPAIV systemic dissemination to multiple organs within pheasants was more rapid following infection with H5N1-2021 than H5N8-2021, with the former attaining generally higher viral RNA levels in tissues. Intraspecies transmission to contact pheasants was successful for both viruses and associated with viral environmental contamination, while interspecies transmission to a first chicken-contact group was also efficient. However, further onward transmission to additional chicken contacts was only achieved with H5N1-2021. Intra-partridge transmission was only successful when high-dose H5N1-2021 was administered, while partridges inoculated with H5N8-2021 failed to shed and transmit, although extensive tissue tropism was observed for both viruses. Mortalities among infected partridges featured a longer incubation period compared to that in pheasants, for both viruses. Therefore, the susceptibility of different gamebird species and pathogenicity outcomes to the ongoing H5Nx clade 2.3.4.4b HPAIVs varies, but pheasants represent a greater likelihood of H5Nx HPAIV introduction into galliforme poultry settings. Consequently, viral maintenance within gamebird populations and risks to poultry species warrant enhanced investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda H Seekings
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Yuan Liang
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Caroline J Warren
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Charlotte K Hjulsager
- Department of Virus and Microbiological Special Diagnostics, Statens Serum Institut, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Saumya S Thomas
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Fabian Z X Lean
- Pathology and Animal Sciences Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, UK
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Alejandro Nunez
- Pathology and Animal Sciences Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Paul Skinner
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - David Selden
- Pathology and Animal Sciences Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Marco Falchieri
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Hugh Simmons
- Pathology and Animal Sciences Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Ian H Brown
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Lars E Larsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Ashley C Banyard
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Marek J Slomka
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, UK
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11
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Mukherjee R, Vidic J, Auger S, Wen HC, Pandey RP, Chang CM. Exploring Disease Management and Control through Pathogen Diagnostics and One Health Initiative: A Concise Review. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 13:17. [PMID: 38247576 PMCID: PMC10812768 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13010017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The "One Health" initiative is a critical strategy that recognizes the interconnectedness between human, animal, and environmental health in the spread and containment of infectious pathogens. With the ease of global transportation, transboundary disease outbreaks pose a significant threat to food safety and security, endangering public health and having a negative economic impact. Traditional diagnostic techniques based on genotypic and phenotypic analyses are expensive, time-consuming, and cannot be translated into point-of-care tools, hindering effective disease management and control. However, with advancements in molecular methods, biosensors, and new generation sequencing, rapid and reliable diagnostics are now available. This review provides a comprehensive insight into emergent viral and bacterial pathogens and antimicrobial resistance, highlighting the importance of "One Health" in connecting detection and effective treatment. By emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between human and animal health, this paper underscores the critical role of "One Health" initiatives in preventing and controlling infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riya Mukherjee
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan;
- Master & Ph.D. Program in Biotechnology Industry, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Jasmina Vidic
- Micalis Institute, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (J.V.); (S.A.)
| | - Sandrine Auger
- Micalis Institute, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (J.V.); (S.A.)
| | - Hsiao-Chuan Wen
- Department of Pet Healthcare, Yuanpei University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan;
| | - Ramendra Pati Pandey
- School of Health Sciences and Technology (SoHST), UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Chung-Ming Chang
- Master & Ph.D. Program in Biotechnology Industry, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Laboratory Animal Center, Chang Gung University, No. 259, Wenhua 1st Road, Guishan Dist., Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
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12
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Lagan P, McKenna R, Baleed S, Hanna B, Barley J, McConnell S, Georgaki A, Sironen T, Kauppinen A, Gadd T, Lindh E, Ikonen N, McMenamy MJ, Lemon K. Highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection in foxes with PB2-M535I identified as a novel mammalian adaptation, Northern Ireland, July 2023. Euro Surveill 2023; 28:2300526. [PMID: 37855904 PMCID: PMC10588307 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2023.28.42.2300526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
We report cases of mammalian infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b in Northern Ireland. Two common gulls (Larus canus) and two red fox kits (Vulpes vulpes), were found dead in close vicinity. Comparison of viral whole genome sequences obtained from the animals identified a novel mammalian adaptation, PB2-M535I. Analysis of genetic sequences from other recent mammalian infections shows that this mutation has arisen on at least five occasions in three European countries since April 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Lagan
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Robyn McKenna
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Salam Baleed
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Bob Hanna
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Jason Barley
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Shirley McConnell
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Anastasia Georgaki
- Veterinary Service Animal Health Group, Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), Ballykelly, Northern Ireland
| | - Tarja Sironen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland and Medicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ari Kauppinen
- Finnish Food Authority (Ruokavirasto), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tuija Gadd
- Finnish Food Authority (Ruokavirasto), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Erika Lindh
- Department of Health Security, The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Niina Ikonen
- Department of Health Security, The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Michael J McMenamy
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Ken Lemon
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) Belfast, Northern Ireland
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13
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Lee UJ, Oh Y, Kwon OS, Shin YB, Kim M. Highly Sensitive and Specific Detection of Influenza A Viruses Using Bimolecular Fluorescence Complementation (BiFC) Reporter System. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:782. [PMID: 37622868 PMCID: PMC10452828 DOI: 10.3390/bios13080782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we developed a highly sensitive and specific bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC)-based influenza A virus (IAV)-sensing system by combining a galactose/glucose-binding protein (GGBP) with an N-terminal large domain (YN1-172) and a C-terminal small domain (YC173-239) made up of enhanced yellow fluorescence protein (eYFP). The GGBP-based BiFC reporter exhibits the fluorescence reconstitution as a result of conformational changes in GGBP when lactose, which was derived from 6'-silalyllactose and used as a substrate for neuraminidase (NA), binds to GGBP in the presence of IAV. The system showed a linear dynamic range extending from 1 × 100 to 1 × 107 TCID50/mL, and it had a detection limit of 1.1 × 100 TCID50/mL for IAV (H1N1), demonstrating ultra-high sensitivity. Our system exhibited fluorescence intensity enhancements in the presence of IAV, while it displayed weak fluorescence signals when exposed to NA-deficient viruses, such as RSV A, RSV B, adenovirus and rhinovirus, thereby indicating selective responses for IAV detection. Overall, our system provides a simple, highly sensitive and specific IAV detection platform based on BiFC that is capable of detecting ligand-induced protein conformational changes, obviating the need for virus culture or RNA extraction processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ui Jin Lee
- Critical Diseases Diagnostics Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahang-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea; (U.J.L.); (Y.O.)
| | - Yunkwang Oh
- Critical Diseases Diagnostics Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahang-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea; (U.J.L.); (Y.O.)
| | - Oh Seok Kwon
- SKKU Advanced Institute of Nanotechnology (SAINT), Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Nano Science and Technology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nano Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Beom Shin
- Bionanotechnology Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea;
- BioNano Health Guard Research Center (H-GUARD), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
- KRIBB School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), 217 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Moonil Kim
- Critical Diseases Diagnostics Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahang-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea; (U.J.L.); (Y.O.)
- Bionanotechnology Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea;
- KRIBB School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), 217 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
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14
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Slomka MJ, Reid SM, Byrne AMP, Coward VJ, Seekings J, Cooper JL, Peers-Dent J, Agyeman-Dua E, de Silva D, Hansen RDE, Banyard AC, Brown IH. Efficient and Informative Laboratory Testing for Rapid Confirmation of H5N1 (Clade 2.3.4.4) High-Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Outbreaks in the United Kingdom. Viruses 2023; 15:1344. [PMID: 37376643 PMCID: PMC10304448 DOI: 10.3390/v15061344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
During the early stages of the UK 2021-2022 H5N1 high-pathogenicity avian influenza virus (HPAIV) epizootic in commercial poultry, 12 infected premises (IPs) were confirmed by four real-time reverse-transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RRT)-PCRs, which identified the viral subtype and pathotype. An assessment was undertaken to evaluate whether a large sample throughput would challenge laboratory capacity during an exceptionally large epizootic; hence, assay performance across our test portfolio was investigated. Statistical analysis of RRT-PCR swab testing supported it to be focused on a three-test approach, featuring the matrix (M)-gene, H5 HPAIV-specific (H5-HP) and N1 RRT-PCRs, which was successfully assessed at 29 subsequent commercial IPs. The absence of nucleotide mismatches in the primer/probe binding regions for the M-gene and limited mismatches for the H5-HP RRT-PCR underlined their high sensitivity. Although less sensitive, the N1 RRT-PCR remained effective at flock level. The analyses also guided successful surveillance testing of apparently healthy commercial ducks from at-risk premises, with pools of five oropharyngeal swabs tested by the H5-HP RRT-PCR to exclude evidence of infection. Serological testing at anseriform H5N1 HPAIV outbreaks, together with quantitative comparisons of oropharyngeal and cloacal shedding, provided epidemiological information concerning the chronology of initial H5N1 HPAIV incursion and onward spread within an IP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek J. Slomka
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
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15
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Rafique S, Rashid F, Mushtaq S, Ali A, Li M, Luo S, Xie L, Xie Z. Global review of the H5N8 avian influenza virus subtype. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1200681. [PMID: 37333639 PMCID: PMC10272346 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1200681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Orthomyxoviruses are negative-sense, RNA viruses with segmented genomes that are highly unstable due to reassortment. The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) subtype H5N8 emerged in wild birds in China. Since its emergence, it has posed a significant threat to poultry and human health. Poultry meat is considered an inexpensive source of protein, but due to outbreaks of HPAI H5N8 from migratory birds in commercial flocks, the poultry meat industry has been facing severe financial crises. This review focuses on occasional epidemics that have damaged food security and poultry production across Europe, Eurasia, the Middle East, Africa, and America. HPAI H5N8 viral sequences have been retrieved from GISAID and analyzed. Virulent HPAI H5N8 belongs to clade 2.3.4.4b, Gs/GD lineage, and has been a threat to the poultry industry and the public in several countries since its first introduction. Continent-wide outbreaks have revealed that this virus is spreading globally. Thus, continuous sero- and viro-surveillance both in commercial and wild birds, and strict biosecurity reduces the risk of the HPAI virus appearing. Furthermore, homologous vaccination practices in commercial poultry need to be introduced to overcome the introduction of emergent strains. This review clearly indicates that HPAI H5N8 is a continuous threat to poultry and people and that further regional epidemiological studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Rafique
- SB Diagnostic Laboratory, Sadiq Poultry Pvt. Ltd, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Farooq Rashid
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Sajda Mushtaq
- SB Diagnostic Laboratory, Sadiq Poultry Pvt. Ltd, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Akbar Ali
- Poultry Research Institute, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Meng Li
- Department of Biotechnology, Guangxi Veterinary Research Institute, Nanning, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of China (Guangxi)-ASEAN Cross-border Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Nanning, China
| | - Sisi Luo
- Department of Biotechnology, Guangxi Veterinary Research Institute, Nanning, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of China (Guangxi)-ASEAN Cross-border Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Nanning, China
| | - Liji Xie
- Department of Biotechnology, Guangxi Veterinary Research Institute, Nanning, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of China (Guangxi)-ASEAN Cross-border Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Nanning, China
| | - Zhixun Xie
- Department of Biotechnology, Guangxi Veterinary Research Institute, Nanning, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of China (Guangxi)-ASEAN Cross-border Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Nanning, China
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16
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James J, Billington E, Warren CJ, De Sliva D, Di Genova C, Airey M, Meyer SM, Lewis T, Peers-Dent J, Thomas SS, Lofts A, Furman N, Nunez A, Slomka MJ, Brown IH, Banyard AC. Clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 high pathogenicity avian influenza virus (HPAIV) from the 2021/22 epizootic is highly duck adapted and poorly adapted to chickens. J Gen Virol 2023; 104. [PMID: 37167079 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The 2021/2022 epizootic of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAIV) remains one of the largest ever in the UK, being caused by a clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 HPAIV. This epizootic affected more than 145 poultry premises, most likely through independent incursion from infected wild birds, supported by more than 1700 individual detections of H5N1 from wild bird mortalities. Here an H5N1 HPAIV, representative of this epizootic (H5N1-21), was used to investigate its virulence, pathogenesis and transmission in layer chickens and Pekin ducks, two species of epidemiological importance. We inoculated both avian species with decreasing H5N1-21 doses. The virus was highly infectious in ducks, with high infection levels and accompanying shedding of viral RNA, even in ducks inoculated with the lowest dose, reflecting the strong waterfowl adaptation of the clade 2.3.4.4 HPAIVs. Duck-to-duck transmission was very efficient, coupled with high environmental contamination. H5N1-21 was frequently detected in water sources, serving as likely sources of infection for ducks, but inhalable dust and aerosols represented low transmission risks. In contrast, chickens inoculated with the highest dose exhibited lower rates of infection compared to ducks. There was no evidence for experimental H5N1-21 transmission to any naive chickens, in two stocking density scenarios, coupled with minimal and infrequent contamination being detected in the chicken environment. Systemic viral dissemination to multiple organs reflected the pathogenesis and high mortalities in both species. In summary, the H5N1-21 virus is highly infectious and transmissible in anseriformes, yet comparatively poorly adapted to galliformes, supporting strong host preferences for wild waterfowl. Key environmental matrices were also identified as being important in the epidemiological spread of this virus during the continuing epizootic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe James
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
- WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Elizabeth Billington
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Caroline J Warren
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Dilhani De Sliva
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Cecilia Di Genova
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Maisie Airey
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Stephanie M Meyer
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
- WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Thomas Lewis
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
- WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Jacob Peers-Dent
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Saumya S Thomas
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Abigail Lofts
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
- WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Natalia Furman
- Pathology and Animal Sciences Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Alejandro Nunez
- Pathology and Animal Sciences Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Marek J Slomka
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Ian H Brown
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
- WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Ashley C Banyard
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
- WOAH/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA-Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
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17
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Furness RW, Gear SC, Camphuysen KCJ, Tyler G, de Silva D, Warren CJ, James J, Reid SM, Banyard AC. Environmental Samples Test Negative for Avian Influenza Virus H5N1 Four Months after Mass Mortality at A Seabird Colony. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12040584. [PMID: 37111470 PMCID: PMC10144497 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12040584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) profoundly impacted several seabird populations during the summers of 2021 and 2022. Infection spread rapidly across colonies, causing unprecedented mortality. At Foula, Shetland, 1500 breeding adult great skuas Stercorarius skua, totalling about two tonnes of decomposing virus-laden material, died at the colony in May-July 2022. Carcasses were left where they died as Government policy was not to remove dead birds. The factors influencing risk of further spread of infection are uncertain, but evidence suggests that HPAI can persist in water for many months in cool conditions and may be a major transmission factor for birds living in wetlands. We investigated risk of further spread of infection from water samples collected from under 45 decomposing carcasses and in three freshwater lochs/streams by sampling water in October 2022, by which time the great skua carcasses had rotted to bones, skin, and feathers. No viral genetic material was detected four months after the mortality, suggesting a low risk of seabird infection from the local environment when the seabirds would return the next breeding season. These findings, although based on a relatively small number of water samples, suggest that the high rainfall typical at Shetland probably washed away the virus from the decomposing carcasses. However, limitations to our study need to be taken on board in the design of environmental monitoring at seabird colonies during and immediately after future outbreaks of HPAI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert W Furness
- MacArthur Green, 95 South Woodside Road, Glasgow G20 6NT, UK
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Sheila C Gear
- Foula Ranger Service, Magdala, Foula, Shetland ZE2 9PN, UK
| | - Kees C J Camphuysen
- Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, 1790 Den Burg, The Netherlands
| | - Glen Tyler
- NatureScot, Lerwick, Shetland ZE1 0LL, UK
| | | | | | - Joe James
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Scott M Reid
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
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18
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Highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N1) virus infections in wild carnivores connected to mass mortalities of pheasants in Finland. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2023; 111:105423. [PMID: 36889484 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2023.105423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has caused widespread mortality in both wild and domestic birds in Europe during 2020-2022. Virus types H5N8 and H5N1 have dominated the epidemic. Isolated spill-over infections in mammals started to emerge as the epidemic continued. In autumn 2021, HPAI H5N1 caused a series of mass mortality events in farmed and released pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) in a restricted area in southern Finland. Later, in the same area, an otter (Lutra lutra), two red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and a lynx (Lynx lynx) were found moribund or dead and infected with H5N1 HPAI virus. Phylogenetically, H5N1 strains from pheasants and mammals clustered together. Molecular analyses of the four mammalian virus strains revealed mutations in the PB2 gene segment (PB2-E627K and PB2-D701N) that are known to facilitate viral replication in mammals. This study revealed that avian influenza cases in mammals were spatially and temporally connected with avian mass mortalities suggesting increased infection pressure from birds to mammals.
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Genotype Diversity, Wild Bird-to-Poultry Transmissions, and Farm-to-Farm Carryover during the Spread of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 in the Czech Republic in 2021/2022. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020293. [PMID: 36851507 PMCID: PMC9963064 DOI: 10.3390/v15020293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In 2021/2022, the re-emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) occurred in Europe. The outbreak was seeded from two sources: resident and reintroduced viruses, which is unprecedented in the recorded history of avian influenza. The dominant subtype was H5N1, which replaced the H5N8 subtype that had predominated in previous seasons. In this study, we present a whole genome sequence and a phylogenetic analysis of 57 H5N1 HPAI and two low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) H5N1 strains collected in the Czech Republic during 2021/2022. Phylogenetic analysis revealed close relationships between H5N1 genomes from poultry and wild birds and secondary transmission in commercial geese. The genotyping showed considerable genetic heterogeneity among Czech H5N1 viruses, with six different HPAI genotypes, three of which were apparently unique. In addition, second-order reassortment relationships were observed with the direct involvement of co-circulating H5N1 LPAI strains. The genetic distance between Czech H5N1 HPAI and the closest LPAI segments available in the database illustrates the profound gaps in our knowledge of circulating LPAI strains. The changing dynamics of HPAI in the wild may increase the likelihood of future HPAI outbreaks and present new challenges in poultry management, biosecurity, and surveillance.
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20
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High pathogenicity avian influenza: targeted active surveillance of wild birds to enable early detection of emerging disease threats. Epidemiol Infect 2022; 151:e15. [PMID: 36502812 PMCID: PMC9990394 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268822001856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Avian influenza (AI) is an important disease that has significant implications for animal and human health. High pathogenicity AI (HPAI) has emerged in consecutive seasons within the UK to cause the largest outbreaks recorded. Statutory measures to control outbreaks of AI virus (AIV) at poultry farms involve disposal of all birds on infected premises. Understanding of the timing of incursions into the UK could facilitate decisions on improved responses. During the autumnal migration and wintering period (autumn 2019- spring 2020), three active sampling approaches were trialled for wild bird species considered likely to be involved in captive AI outbreaks with retrospective laboratory testing undertaken to define the presence of AIV.Faecal sampling of birds (n = 594) caught during routine and responsive mist net sampling failed to detect AIV. Cloacal sampling of hunter-harvested waterfowl (n = 146) detected seven positive samples from three species with the earliest detection on the 17 October 2020. Statutory sampling first detected AIV in wild and captive birds on 3 November 2020. We conclude that hunter sourced sampling of waterfowl presents an opportunity to detect AI within the UK in advance of outbreaks on poultry farms and allow for early intervention measures to protect the national poultry flock.
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21
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Letsholo SL, James J, Meyer SM, Byrne AMP, Reid SM, Settypalli TBK, Datta S, Oarabile L, Kemolatlhe O, Pebe KT, Mafonko BR, Kgotlele TJ, Kumile K, Modise B, Thanda C, Nyange JFC, Marobela-Raborokgwe C, Cattoli G, Lamien CE, Brown IH, Dundon WG, Banyard AC. Emergence of High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Virus H5N1 Clade 2.3.4.4b in Wild Birds and Poultry in Botswana. Viruses 2022; 14:v14122601. [PMID: 36560605 PMCID: PMC9788244 DOI: 10.3390/v14122601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous outbreaks of high-pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) were reported during 2020-2021. In Africa, H5Nx has been detected in Benin, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Senegal, Lesotho, Namibia and South Africa in both wild birds and poultry. Botswana reported its first outbreak of HPAI to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) in 2021. An H5N1 virus was detected in a fish eagle, doves, and chickens. Full genome sequence analysis revealed that the virus belonged to clade 2.3.4.4b and showed high identity within haemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase proteins (NA) for viruses identified across a geographically broad range of locations. The detection of H5N1 in Botswana has important implications for disease management, wild bird conservation, tourism, public health, economic empowerment of vulnerable communities and food security in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha L. Letsholo
- Botswana National Veterinary Laboratory (BNVL), Private Bag 0035, Gaborone, Botswana
- Correspondence: (S.L.L.); (A.C.B.)
| | - Joe James
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)—Woodham Ln, Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Stephanie M. Meyer
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)—Woodham Ln, Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
| | | | - Scott M. Reid
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)—Woodham Ln, Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Tirumala B. K. Settypalli
- Animal Production and Health Laboratory (APHL), United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)/International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Agriculture and Biotechnology Laboratory, IAEA Laboratories, Friedenstrasse 1, 2444 Seibersdorf, Austria
| | - Sneha Datta
- Animal Production and Health Laboratory (APHL), United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)/International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Agriculture and Biotechnology Laboratory, IAEA Laboratories, Friedenstrasse 1, 2444 Seibersdorf, Austria
| | - Letlhogile Oarabile
- Department of Veterinary Services (DVS), Ministry of Agriculture, Private Bag 0032, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Obakeng Kemolatlhe
- Department of Veterinary Services (DVS), Ministry of Agriculture, Private Bag 0032, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Kgakgamatso T. Pebe
- Department of Veterinary Services (DVS), Ministry of Agriculture, Private Bag 0032, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Bruce R. Mafonko
- Department of Veterinary Services (DVS), Ministry of Agriculture, Private Bag 0032, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Tebogo J. Kgotlele
- Botswana National Veterinary Laboratory (BNVL), Private Bag 0035, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Kago Kumile
- Botswana National Veterinary Laboratory (BNVL), Private Bag 0035, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Boitumelo Modise
- Botswana National Veterinary Laboratory (BNVL), Private Bag 0035, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Carter Thanda
- Botswana National Veterinary Laboratory (BNVL), Private Bag 0035, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - John F. C. Nyange
- Botswana National Veterinary Laboratory (BNVL), Private Bag 0035, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | - Giovanni Cattoli
- Animal Production and Health Laboratory (APHL), United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)/International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Agriculture and Biotechnology Laboratory, IAEA Laboratories, Friedenstrasse 1, 2444 Seibersdorf, Austria
| | - Charles E. Lamien
- Animal Production and Health Laboratory (APHL), United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)/International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Agriculture and Biotechnology Laboratory, IAEA Laboratories, Friedenstrasse 1, 2444 Seibersdorf, Austria
| | - Ian H. Brown
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)—Woodham Ln, Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
| | - William G. Dundon
- Animal Production and Health Laboratory (APHL), United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)/International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Agriculture and Biotechnology Laboratory, IAEA Laboratories, Friedenstrasse 1, 2444 Seibersdorf, Austria
| | - Ashley C. Banyard
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)—Woodham Ln, Addlestone KT15 3NB, UK
- Correspondence: (S.L.L.); (A.C.B.)
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22
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Leifels M, Khalilur Rahman O, Sam IC, Cheng D, Chua FJD, Nainani D, Kim SY, Ng WJ, Kwok WC, Sirikanchana K, Wuertz S, Thompson J, Chan YF. The one health perspective to improve environmental surveillance of zoonotic viruses: lessons from COVID-19 and outlook beyond. ISME COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 2:107. [PMID: 36338866 PMCID: PMC9618154 DOI: 10.1038/s43705-022-00191-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The human population has doubled in the last 50 years from about 3.7 billion to approximately 7.8 billion. With this rapid expansion, more people live in close contact with wildlife, livestock, and pets, which in turn creates increasing opportunities for zoonotic diseases to pass between animals and people. At present an estimated 75% of all emerging virus-associated infectious diseases possess a zoonotic origin, and outbreaks of Zika, Ebola and COVID-19 in the past decade showed their huge disruptive potential on the global economy. Here, we describe how One Health inspired environmental surveillance campaigns have emerged as the preferred tools to monitor human-adjacent environments for known and yet to be discovered infectious diseases, and how they can complement classical clinical diagnostics. We highlight the importance of environmental factors concerning interactions between animals, pathogens and/or humans that drive the emergence of zoonoses, and the methodologies currently proposed to monitor them-the surveillance of wastewater, for example, was identified as one of the main tools to assess the spread of SARS-CoV-2 by public health professionals and policy makers during the COVID-19 pandemic. One-Health driven approaches that facilitate surveillance, thus harbour the potential of preparing humanity for future pandemics caused by aetiological agents with environmental reservoirs. Via the example of COVID-19 and other viral diseases, we propose that wastewater surveillance is a useful complement to clinical diagnosis as it is centralized, robust, cost-effective, and relatively easy to implement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mats Leifels
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Omar Khalilur Rahman
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - I-Ching Sam
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Dan Cheng
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Feng Jun Desmond Chua
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Dhiraj Nainani
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Se Yeon Kim
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wei Jie Ng
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wee Chiew Kwok
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kwanrawee Sirikanchana
- Research Laboratory of Biotechnology, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre of Excellence on Environmental Health and Toxicology, CHE, Ministry of Education, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Stefan Wuertz
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Janelle Thompson
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
- Asian School of the Environment, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yoke Fun Chan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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23
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James J, Meyer SM, Hong HA, Dang C, Linh HTY, Ferreira W, Katsande PM, Vo L, Hynes D, Love W, Banyard AC, Cutting SM. Intranasal Treatment of Ferrets with Inert Bacterial Spores Reduces Disease Caused by a Challenging H7N9 Avian Influenza Virus. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10091559. [PMID: 36146637 PMCID: PMC9502451 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10091559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Influenza is a respiratory infection that continues to present a major threat to human health, with ~500,000 deaths/year. Continued circulation of epidemic subtypes in humans and animals potentially increases the risk of future pandemics. Vaccination has failed to halt the evolution of this virus and next-generation prophylactic approaches are under development. Naked, “heat inactivated”, or inert bacterial spores have been shown to protect against influenza in murine models. Methods: Ferrets were administered intranasal doses of inert bacterial spores (DSM 32444K) every 7 days for 4 weeks. Seven days after the last dose, the animals were challenged with avian H7N9 influenza A virus. Clinical signs of infection and viral shedding were monitored. Results: Clinical symptoms of infection were significantly reduced in animals dosed with DSM 32444K. The temporal kinetics of viral shedding was reduced but not prevented. Conclusion: Taken together, nasal dosing using heat-stable spores could provide a useful approach for influenza prophylaxis in both humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe James
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, Weybridge KT15 3NB, Surrey, UK
| | - Stephanie M. Meyer
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, Weybridge KT15 3NB, Surrey, UK
| | - Huynh A. Hong
- SporeGen Ltd., London Bioscience Innovation Centre, 2 Royal College Street, London NW1 0NH, UK
| | - Chau Dang
- SporeGen Ltd., London Bioscience Innovation Centre, 2 Royal College Street, London NW1 0NH, UK
| | - Ho T. Y. Linh
- HURO Biotech JSC, Lot A1-8, VL3 Road, Vinh Loc 2 Industrial Park, Long Hiep Commune, Ben Luc District, Long An, Vietnam
| | - William Ferreira
- SporeGen Ltd., London Bioscience Innovation Centre, 2 Royal College Street, London NW1 0NH, UK
| | - Paidamoyo M. Katsande
- Department of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham TW20 0EX, Surrey, UK
| | - Linh Vo
- SporeGen Ltd., London Bioscience Innovation Centre, 2 Royal College Street, London NW1 0NH, UK
| | - Daniel Hynes
- Destiny Pharma Plc., Sussex Innovation Centre, Science Park Square, Falmer, Brighton BN1 9SB, UK
| | - William Love
- Destiny Pharma Plc., Sussex Innovation Centre, Science Park Square, Falmer, Brighton BN1 9SB, UK
| | - Ashley C. Banyard
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, Weybridge KT15 3NB, Surrey, UK
| | - Simon M. Cutting
- SporeGen Ltd., London Bioscience Innovation Centre, 2 Royal College Street, London NW1 0NH, UK
- Department of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham TW20 0EX, Surrey, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-(0)7900-408043
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24
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Genotype Uniformity, Wild Bird-to-Poultry Transmissions, and Farm-to-Farm Carryover during the Spread of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N8 in the Czech Republic in 2021. Viruses 2022; 14:v14071411. [PMID: 35891391 PMCID: PMC9321741 DOI: 10.3390/v14071411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2020–2021, the second massive dissemination of a highly pathogenic avian influenza of the H5Nx subtype occurred in Europe. During this period, the virus caused numerous outbreaks in poultry, including in the Czech Republic. In the present study, we provide an insight into the genetic variability of the Czech/2021 (CZE/2021) H5N8 viruses to determine the relationships between strains from wild and domestic poultry and to infer transmission routes between the affected flocks of commercial poultry. For this purpose, whole genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of 70 H5N8 genomes representing 79.7% of the cases were performed. All CZE/2021 H5N8 viruses belonged to the 2.3.4.4b H5 lineage and circulated without reassortment, retaining the A/chicken/Iraq/1/2020 H5N8-like genotype constellation. Phylogenetic analysis suggested the frequent local transmission of H5N8 from wild birds to backyard poultry and extensive spread among commercial poultry farms. In addition, the analysis suggested one cross-border transmission event. Indirect transmission via contaminated materials was considered the most likely source of infection. Improved biosecurity and increased collaboration between field veterinarians and the laboratory are essential to limit the local spread of the virus and to reveal and interrupt critical routes of infection.
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25
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Geiselhardt F, Peters M, Jo WK, Schadenhofer A, Puff C, Baumgärtner W, Kydyrmanov A, Kuiken T, Piewbang C, Techangamsuwan S, Osterhaus ADME, Beineke A, Ludlow M. Development and Validation of a Pan-Genotypic Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription-PCR Assay To Detect Canine Distemper Virus and Phocine Distemper Virus in Domestic Animals and Wildlife. J Clin Microbiol 2022; 60:e0250521. [PMID: 35491822 PMCID: PMC9116185 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.02505-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine distemper virus (CDV) is an animal morbillivirus belonging to the family Paramyxoviridae and has caused major epizootics with high mortality levels in susceptible wildlife species. In recent years, the documented genetic diversity of CDV has expanded, with new genotypes identified in India, the Caspian Sea, and North America. However, no quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) that has been validated for the detection of all genotypes of CDV is currently available. We have therefore established and characterized a pan-genotypic probe-based RT-qPCR assay based on the detection of a conserved region of the phosphoprotein (P) gene of CDV. This assay has been validated using virus strains representative of six genotypes of CDV in different sample types, including frozen tissue, formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue sections, and virus isolates. The primers and probe target sequences were sufficiently conserved to also enable detection of the phocine distemper virus strains responsible for epizootics in harbor seals in the North Sea in 1988 and 2002. Comparison with two recently published RT-qPCR assays for CDV showed that under equivalent conditions the primers and probe set reported in this study were more sensitive in detecting nucleic acids from an Asia-4 genotype, which displays sequence variation in primer and probe binding sites. In summary, this validated new pan-genotypic RT-qPCR assay will facilitate screening of suspected distemper cases caused by novel genotypes for which full genome sequences are unavailable and have utility in detecting multiple CDV strains in geographical regions where multiple genotypes cocirculate in wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Geiselhardt
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine (TiHo-RIZ), Hannover, Germany
| | - Martin Peters
- Chemisches und Veterinäruntersuchungsamt Westfalen, Arnsberg, Germany
| | - Wendy K. Jo
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine (TiHo-RIZ), Hannover, Germany
| | - Alina Schadenhofer
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine (TiHo-RIZ), Hannover, Germany
| | - Christina Puff
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Aidyn Kydyrmanov
- Laboratory of Viral Ecology, Research and Production Center for Microbiology and Virology, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Thijs Kuiken
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Chutchai Piewbang
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Animal Virome and Diagnostic Development Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Somporn Techangamsuwan
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Animal Virome and Diagnostic Development Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Albert D. M. E. Osterhaus
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine (TiHo-RIZ), Hannover, Germany
| | - Andreas Beineke
- Chemisches und Veterinäruntersuchungsamt Westfalen, Arnsberg, Germany
| | - Martin Ludlow
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine (TiHo-RIZ), Hannover, Germany
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26
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Nagy A, Černíková L, Stará M. A new clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza genotype detected in Europe in 2021. Arch Virol 2022; 167:1455-1459. [PMID: 35469095 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-022-05442-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Despite their widespread distribution, only a single genotype variant of clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 influenza viruses has been found so far in Europe. Here, we report the detection of a new highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 genotype in geese and ducks from a backyard farm in the Czech Republic. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the Czech H5N1 virus retained the A/Eurasian_Wigeon/Netherlands/1/2020-like backbone with an altered PB2 segment obtained from co-circulating low-pathogenic avian influenza viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Nagy
- State Veterinary Institute Prague, Sídlištní 136/24, 165 03, Prague 6, Czech Republic.
| | - Lenka Černíková
- State Veterinary Institute Prague, Sídlištní 136/24, 165 03, Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Stará
- State Veterinary Institute Prague, Sídlištní 136/24, 165 03, Prague 6, Czech Republic
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27
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Denzin N, Bölling M, Pohlmann A, King J, Globig A, Conraths FJ. Investigation into a Superspreading Event of the German 2020–2021 Avian Influenza Epidemic. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11030309. [PMID: 35335633 PMCID: PMC8949240 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11030309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Between November 2020 and May 2021, Germany faced the largest highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) epidemic recorded so far with 245 outbreaks in poultry and captive birds and more than 1000 diagnosed cases in wild birds. In March 2021, an HPAI outbreak of subtype H5N8 was confirmed in a holding rearing laying hens for sales. Disease introduction probably occurred via indirect contact with infected wild birds. Since the index farm sold chicken to customers including many smallholders, partly in travel trade, the primary outbreak triggered 105 known secondary outbreaks in five German federal states. An outbreak investigation was carried out with links between the involved farms retrieved from the German Animal Disease Notification System used for network analysis. In some cases, links were confirmed through sequence-based molecular analysis. Special emphasis was put on the estimation of the flock incubation period as a prerequisite of sound contact tracing. The unique circumstances of an outbreak farm with frequent direct trade contacts prior to disease suspicion enabled an assessment of the flock incubation period based on the consequences of contacts, further supported by molecular analysis and modeling of disease spread. In this case, the flock incubation period was at least 14 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolai Denzin
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald, Germany; (A.P.); (J.K.); (A.G.); (F.J.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-38351-71541
| | - Marlies Bölling
- Office for Consumer Protection and Veterinary Affairs, District of Paderborn, 33102 Paderborn, Germany;
| | - Anne Pohlmann
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald, Germany; (A.P.); (J.K.); (A.G.); (F.J.C.)
| | - Jacqueline King
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald, Germany; (A.P.); (J.K.); (A.G.); (F.J.C.)
| | - Anja Globig
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald, Germany; (A.P.); (J.K.); (A.G.); (F.J.C.)
| | - Franz Josef Conraths
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald, Germany; (A.P.); (J.K.); (A.G.); (F.J.C.)
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28
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Lewis NS, Banyard AC, Whittard E, Karibayev T, Al Kafagi T, Chvala I, Byrne A, Meruyert Akberovna S, King J, Harder T, Grund C, Essen S, Reid SM, Brouwer A, Zinyakov NG, Tegzhanov A, Irza V, Pohlmann A, Beer M, Fouchier RAM, Akhmetzhan Akievich S, Brown IH. Emergence and spread of novel H5N8, H5N5 and H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4 highly pathogenic avian influenza in 2020. Emerg Microbes Infect 2021; 10:148-151. [PMID: 33400615 PMCID: PMC7832535 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2021.1872355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Analyses of HPAI H5 viruses from poultry outbreaks across a wide Eurasian region since July 2020 including the Russian Federation, Republics of Iraq and Kazakhstan, and recent detections in migratory waterfowl in the Netherlands, revealed undetected maintenance of H5N8, likely in galliform poultry since 2017/18 and both H5N5 and H5N1. All viruses belong to A/H5 clade 2.3.4.4b with closely related HA genes. Heterogeneity in Eurasian H5Nx HPAI emerging variants threatens poultry production, food security and veterinary public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola S Lewis
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency, OIE/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Swine Influenza and Newcastle Disease Virus, Surrey, UK.,Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Addlestone, UK
| | - Ashley C Banyard
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency, OIE/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Swine Influenza and Newcastle Disease Virus, Surrey, UK
| | - Elliot Whittard
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency, OIE/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Swine Influenza and Newcastle Disease Virus, Surrey, UK
| | - Talgat Karibayev
- National Veterinary Reference Centre, Infectious Diseases Laboratory, The Committee for Veterinary Control and Supervision, Nur-Sultan City, Republic of Kazakhstan
| | | | - Ilya Chvala
- National Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease, Federal Centre for Animal Health (FGBI "ARRIAH"), Yur'evets Vladimir, Russia
| | - Alex Byrne
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency, OIE/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Swine Influenza and Newcastle Disease Virus, Surrey, UK
| | - Saduakassova Meruyert Akberovna
- Department of Virology, The Kazakh Scientific Research Veterinary Institute (KazSRVI), Non-Commercial JSC "National Agrarian Science and Educational Centre", Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan
| | - Jacqueline King
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute of Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Timm Harder
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute of Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Christian Grund
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute of Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Steve Essen
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency, OIE/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Swine Influenza and Newcastle Disease Virus, Surrey, UK
| | - Scott M Reid
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency, OIE/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Swine Influenza and Newcastle Disease Virus, Surrey, UK
| | - Adam Brouwer
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency, OIE/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Swine Influenza and Newcastle Disease Virus, Surrey, UK
| | - Nikolay G Zinyakov
- National Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease, Federal Centre for Animal Health (FGBI "ARRIAH"), Yur'evets Vladimir, Russia
| | - Azimkhan Tegzhanov
- National Veterinary Reference Centre, Infectious Diseases Laboratory, The Committee for Veterinary Control and Supervision, Nur-Sultan City, Republic of Kazakhstan
| | - Victor Irza
- National Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease, Federal Centre for Animal Health (FGBI "ARRIAH"), Yur'evets Vladimir, Russia
| | - Anne Pohlmann
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute of Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Martin Beer
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute of Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | | | - Sultanov Akhmetzhan Akievich
- Department of Virology, The Kazakh Scientific Research Veterinary Institute (KazSRVI), Non-Commercial JSC "National Agrarian Science and Educational Centre", Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan
| | - Ian H Brown
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency, OIE/FAO International Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Swine Influenza and Newcastle Disease Virus, Surrey, UK
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