Fun Facts about Avian Influenza

Avian influenza is caused by an orthomyxovirus called Influenza A virus.

There are multiple sub-types which are divided based on their haemagglutinin and neuraminidase.

According to the WHO there are 18 different haemagglutinin subtypes and 11 different neuraminidase subtypes.

Based on history the most highly pathogenic outbreaks were caused by mutated H5 or H7.

Birds infected can have the following clinical symptoms:

• Respiratory disease.
• Depression, loss of appetite.
• Decrease in egg production.
• Blue discoloration of extremities due to disturbance in blood circulation.
• Coughing and sneezing.
• Incubation periods of these viruses can range from as short as 3 days up to 14 days to spread throughout a flock.

Testing is important for the following reasons:

• Routine monitoring is required to certify those flocks that are not vaccinated, for freedom of infection monthly and prior to movement.
• Confirmation of suspected clinical cases are mandatory.
• Vaccinated flocks are tested to evaluate immune status.

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