Avian Flu Detection Information on Wild Birds Available [Press Release]
United States Geological Survey (USGS)
24 Aug 2006


The public can now view a Web site showing current information about wild bird sampling for early detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the United States: http://wildlifedisease.nbii.gov/ai/.

Scientists are now using the newly developed database and Web application called HEDDS (HPAI Early Detection Data System) to share information on sample collection sites, bird species sampled, and test results.

The database is available to agencies, organizations, and policymakers involved in avian influenza monitoring and response. Scientists will use the data to assess risk and refine monitoring strategies should HPAI be detected in the United States. Public access is more limited, but shows the states where samples have been collected and includes numbers of samples collected from each state.

>>> FULL PRESS RELEASE

Anthrax Kills Wild Animals
Daily News Online
25 Aug 2006

Nine wild animals have died since an anthrax outbreak was reported in the Chobe area last week. Department of Wildlife and National Parks officials told a heads of department meeting in Kasane that samples taken from the carcasses of two elephants for analysis proved positive. Principal Wildlife Officer Lucas Rutina said elephants, zebras and buffaloes were found dead last week.

Rutina said the mortality rate was likely to rise as the disease was expected to spread before the rainy season. District Wildlife Coordinator Goitseone Lebonetse said his office was taking steps such as proper disposal of carcasses, found at Ihaha in the Chobe National Park and Muchenje in the west of the Chobe enclave, to control its spread.

Lebonetse said the department had asked for a helicopter to help them carry out further investigations in affected areas and were embarking on public education campaigns. We intend to intensify our public awareness programme and warn people to desist from criminal activities as some might be tempted to dig up elephant carcasses for their tusks.

>>> FULL ARTICLE

USGS Map - West Nile Virus Sampling Efforts in Wild Bird - Updated August 22, 2006
United States Geological Survey (USGS) and Center for Disease Control (CDC)
22 Aug 2006

A USGS map recently updated showing West Nile virus sampling efforts in wild birds across the United States.

>>> MAP