HPAI H5 virus infections in Dutch wild carnivores, 2020-2022
A new study on HPAI H5 virus infections in wild carnivores provides valuable insights for One Health risk analyses, prevention, and control measures. The frequent spillovers and widespread infections, including some evidence of mammal-to-mammal transmission, raise concerns about the possibility of further adaptation to mammals. The study found that 16% of the tested wild carnivores were positive for HPAI H5 virus, and 31% of the tested animals had antibodies against the virus. Additionally, the virus was detected in various species of wild carnivores, including raccoons and stone martens, with the prevalence of infection varying by season and location. The high number of HPAI H5 virus infections and the presence of antibodies in wild carnivores suggest that the virus is widely circulating in the environment, thereby increasing the risk of transmission to humans and other animals. The study's findings underscore the importance of One Health approaches that integrate human, animal, and environmental health to prevent and control the spread of the virus.
