Main description:

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 diseases 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 or 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.