|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Avian Flu |
|
|
|
 |
|
|
| |
|
Bird Flu / Avian Influenza is one of the most dangerous avian diseases with up to 100 % mortality. Even in the case of a mild occurrence, Avian Influenza may cause high economic losses. The virus affects the respiratory, enteric or nervous system of many kinds of poultry and birds.
The etiological agent is an enveloped virus which belongs to the group of Orthomyxoviruses. It is shed in secretions from the respiratory tract, conjunctiva and in faeces. It multiplies in the cells of the respiratory and intestinal tract. Since Avian Influenza Virus is excreted in large amounts and can survive for rather long periods, transmission occurs mainly via contaminated equipment, solid / liquid manure, vehicles and persons. Within an infected population, transmission requires very close contact between birds and airborne spread does not seem to play an important role.
The Avian Influenza Virus is very tenacious. In faeces the virus is stable for more than one month at 4°C. At room temperature it remains infectious one week or longer. Only at a temperature of 56 to 60 °C is the virus rapidly inactivated. Nevertheless, even under these conditions the virus may remain infectious for some hours.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
