ARS | Publication request: REPORT ON THE 5TH INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON AVIAN INFLUENZA

Submitted to: United States Animal Health Association Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: October 23, 2002
Publication Date: January 1, 2003
Citation: Swayne, D.E. 2003. Report on the 5th International Symposium on Avian Influenza. United States Animal Health Association Proceedings, p585-586, 2003.

Technical Abstract: The Fifth International Symposium on Avian Influenza was held at the Georgia Center for Continuing Education, The University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA, April 14-17, 2002. Fifty-six oral and 25 poster presentations were given during 11 sessions by international experts from North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. In attendance were 204 persons representing 6 continents and 25 countries. This conference brought together scientists, biologists, veterinarians, and government regulators from all over the world to exchange and discuss current scientific information on avian influenza. The symposium addressed national and international issues including global reports on influenza; outbreaks in Italy and Hong Kong; ecology and epidemiology; advances in molecular biology and epidemiology; impact on public health; pathobiology and pathogenesis; risk assessment, regulations and trade issues; field experiences in control and eradication; vaccines and antibody-based diagnostics; molecular diagnostics; and late breaking issues. The program gave all who attended a broader understanding of the global nature of avian influenza and a framework was developed to foster international cooperation in solving problems. Professionals were able to exchange research data and ideas, and build closer ties with colleagues worldwide. A proceedings book containing contents of oral and poster presentations and the discussion sessions will be published in early 2003 as a special issue of Avian Diseases.