ARS | Publication request: The global nature of avian influenza

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: May 8, 2007
Publication Date: March 1, 2008
Citation: Swayne, D.E. 2008. The global nature of avian influenza. In: Swayne, D.E., editor. Avian Influenza. Ames, Iowa: Blackwell Publishing. p. 123-143.

Technical Abstract: Avian influenza virus is a global virus which knows no geographic boundaries, has no political agenda, and can infect poultry irrespective of their agricultural or anthropocentric production systems. Avian influenza viruses or evidence of their infection have been detected in poultry and wild birds on all seven continents. However, the reported frequency of AI is greatly skewed by the availability of diagnostics, quantity and quality of surveillance conducted, the type of birds and production sector tested, the time of year, geographic location, climatic conditions, and other undefined factors. The greatest quantity of surveillance in domestic and wild birds has been conducted in North America and Europe because of scientific interest, availability of virological and serological tests, and financial resources. Because influenza is an international problem, solutions will require international efforts and cooperation.