Sponsor Message:

BI: The Problem is Dynamic. So is the Solution. Start Applying the Science

Abstract: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus Clade 2.3.4.4b Infections in Wild Terrestrial Mammals, United States, 2022

December 16, 2023 —

We describe the pathology of natural infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus of Eurasian lineage Goose/Guangdong clade 2.3.4.4b in 67 wild terrestrial mammals throughout the United States during April 1‒July 21, 2022. Affected mammals include 50 red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), 6 striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis), 4 raccoons (Procyon lotor), 2 bobcats (Lynx rufus), 2 Virginia opossums (Didelphis virginiana), 1 coyote (Canis latrans), 1 fisher (Pekania pennanti), and 1 gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus). Infected mammals showed primarily neurologic signs. Necrotizing meningoencephalitis, interstitial pneumonia, and myocardial necrosis were the most common lesions; however, species variations in lesion distribution were observed. Genotype analysis of sequences from 48 animals indicates that these cases represent spillover infections from wild birds.

Elsmo EJ, Wünschmann A, Beckmen KB, et al. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus Clade 2.3.4.4b Infections in Wild Terrestrial Mammals, United States, 2022. Emerging Infectious Diseases. 2023;29(12):2451-2460. doi:10.3201/eid2912.230464.

Next story: Veterinary Students: Apply for Podcasting Opportunity by January 10
Next in category: Abstract: Infection of Feral Phenotype Swine with Japanese Encephalitis Virus
Previous in category: Abstract: A multisectoral approach to developing a state-level foreign animal disease response plan: the Ohio African Swine Fever Response Plan Workshop
Previous story: Student Room Sharing at the AASV Annual Meeting