December 20, 2005

What is Avian Influenza?

Avian influenza is usually an inapparent or nonclinical viral infection of wild birds that is caused by a group of viruses known as type A influenzas. These viruses are maintained in wild birds by fecal-oral routes of transmission. This virus changes rapidly in nature by mixing of its genetic components to form slightly different virus subtypes.

Avian influenza is caused by this collection of slightly different viruses rather than by a single virus type. The virus subtypes are identified and classified on the basis of two broad types of antigens, hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N); 16 H and 9 N antigens have been identified among all of the known type A influenzas. Avian influenza viruses have been found in many bird species, but are most often found in migratory waterfowl, especially the mallard duck. More


4 comments:

Wildlife Data Integration Network [WDIN] said...

You can learn even more about Avian Influenza by clickin on the "More" button blow the post or by clicking on WDIN HOME under links.

Anonymous said...

Is it true that it's just a matter of time with untill Avian Influenza becomes dangerour for humans?

Anonymous said...

Is AI really that dangerous?

Anonymous said...

Avian Influenza is the buzz right now. The big debate is which is more likely the disease, domestic birds or wild birds.