Limited Role of Pigeons in H5N1 Transmission
A recent study published in the Journal of General Virology examined the susceptibility and transmission dynamics of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b) in domestic pigeons (Columba livia). The findings indicate that pigeons show low susceptibility to this virus. Only birds inoculated with high doses demonstrated limited infection, characterized by low-level viral RNA shedding and seroconversion.
Importantly, infected pigeons did not develop clinical signs and failed to transmit the virus to other pigeons or to chickens in direct contact experiments. Researchers suggest that differences in sialic acid receptor distribution between pigeons, chickens, and ducks may underlie this restricted susceptibility.
The study concludes that pigeons are unlikely to play a significant role in the maintenance or spread of H5N1 HPAIV in natural or poultry settings, alleviating concerns about their potential as bridging hosts.
