Waterfowl and shorebirds are considered to be the natural reservoirs for all avian influenza virus subtypes and, in general, most subtypes cause little or no disease in wildlife. However, type A influenza has undergone a combination of genetic drifts and shifts that have resulted in the H5N1 AI virus strain causing morbidity and mortality in many wildlife species. Although some surveillance has started, more research is necessary to determine the role that healthy wildlife plays in transporting and shedding virus.

This manual provides basic guidelines for wildlife surveillance and disease investigation whatever their cause. It contains chapters on clinical signs of infectious disease, bird handling and sample collection methods, sample handling and transportation, and diagnostic techniques. It also contains important recommendations on disinfection and personal safety.

Table of contents





Acknowledgements

Introduction

CHAPTER 1
Clinical signs of infectious disease

CHAPTER 2
Live bird handling

Blood sampling
Euthanasia

CHAPTER 3
Dead bird collection

Sampling strategy for H5N1 AI

CHAPTER 4
Avian Necropsy Protocol

Necropsy Occupational Health and Safety
Avian Necropsy Protocol
External examination
Internal Examination

CHAPTER 5
Necropsy sample collection

CHAPTER 6
Sample collection

Details regarding samples to be collected during a necropsy

CHAPTER 7
Swabbing techniques

Procedure for sampling

CHAPTER 8
Sample handling and transport

Swabs and viral transport media
Serum, plasma and fresh tissues
Formalin fixed tissues
Sample shipment

CHAPTER 9
Diagnostics

Laboratory diagnosis for H5N1 AI
Field tests (point-of-care)
RT-PCR

CHAPTER 10
Carcass disposal

In the field

CHAPTER 11
Disinfection

CHAPTER 12
Personal safety recommendations

Annexes

1. Sick or dead bird sample collection log
2. OIE/FAO Network (OFFLU) and reference laboratories for avian influenza
3. Gross Pathology Illustrations

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© FAO 2006