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Wildlife Disease: Hot Topics |
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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. |
Chronic Wasting Disease |
Chronic Wasting Disease(CWD) is a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy that
has been identified in the free-ranging and captive mule deer, white tailed deer
and elk population. The disease attacks the brains of infected deer and elk, causing
the animals to become emaciated, display abnormal behavior, lose bodily functions and
die. This disease poses serious problems for wildlife managers, and the implications for
free-ranging deer and elk are significant. |
West Nile Virus |
West Nile virus(WNV) is a newly emergent virus of the family Flaviviridae, found in both tropical
and temperate regions. It mainly infects birds, but is also the cause of a number of conditions in
humans, horses, and some other mammals. It is transmitted by bites of infected mosquitoes. This disease
has recently become a concern for researchers because of its increased virulence and emergence in new
geological locations, such as North America. |
Whirling Disease |
Whirling disease affects fish in the trout and salmon family. By damaging
cartilage, whirling disease can kill young fish directly, or cause infected
fish to swim in an uncontrolled whirling motion. This can make it
impossible for them to escape predators or to effectively seek food.
Whirling disease is caused by a microscopic parasite called Myxobolus
cerebralis. The parasite was introduced to the United States from Europe in
the 1950s and the parasite has been found in wild fish and fish hatcheries
in 25 states. |
H1N1 Flu Information |
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Although there is currently no known wildlife connection to the H1N1 flu, the links in the informational green box on the left will provide you with the latest reports and news about H1N1 flu. |