Dr. Yuko Sato: Avian Influenza Cross-Species Risk | Ep. 119
Dec 10, 2024
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Dr. Yuko Sato, a poultry extension veterinarian from Iowa State University, discusses critical updates on avian influenza. She delves into how the virus spreads across different species, emphasizing milk's role in transmission. Dr. Sato also reviews surveillance strategies for both poultry and dairy, highlighting the need for stringent biosecurity measures. Additionally, she examines vaccination challenges and recent findings regarding the H5N1 virus, underscoring the importance of collaboration in protecting the poultry industry.
Dr. Yuko Sato emphasizes the necessity for improved biosecurity practices and testing protocols to mitigate avian influenza risks across livestock industries.
Recent findings indicate minimal H5N1 threat from wild birds, but ongoing research is critical to fully understand cross-species transmission dynamics.
Deep dives
Wild Bird Surveillance and Avian Influenza Updates
Recent studies on avian influenza, particularly the H5N1 genotype B313, show minimal threat from wild birds as confirmed by surveillance sampling over 5,000 wild birds, with less than 1% testing positive for H5N1. The findings suggest that the wild bird population is not significantly involved in spreading this virus to commercial poultry or other livestock. This information is crucial in alleviating fears regarding the reinfection of domestic animals from wild birds, emphasizing the need for ongoing research to fully understand the dynamics of the virus. Additionally, the podcast highlights unexpected cases of H5N1 in mammals, such as a goat herd in Minnesota and alpacas in Idaho, raising important questions about interspecies transmission and its implications for animal health.
Potential Transmission Routes and Risk Factors
Scientists are investigating how H5N1 is transmitted to cattle, particularly in the absence of live wild birds carrying the virus. Evidence suggests that the primary route may be through milk, as challenge trials indicated that virus replication occurs significantly in the udder. However, the complexities of transmission dynamics raise concerns about how the virus spreads within and between herds, especially with the frequent movement of cattle. The podcast discusses the need for evaluating various animal handling practices and cattle management systems to mitigate risks associated with this virus.
Importance of Testing and Biosecurity Measures
Current biosecurity practices are deemed insufficient in some dairy operations, as individuals often lack incentives to conduct thorough testing, unlike poultry producers who benefit from early detection and compensation for positive findings. The conversation stresses the necessity for enhanced biosecurity protocols between different livestock industries and for greater accountability in testing. It highlights the potential for risk exposure due to shared workers and the movement of animals or equipment between different farms. Establishing comprehensive testing requirements and minimizing cross-contact between farm operations are crucial steps in preventing the spread of H5N1.
Future Directions and Vaccine Considerations
The podcast suggests that there may be a shift in how both poultry and dairy industries view vaccination against H5N1, especially with concerns about its transmission to other species. Currently, there is hesitance toward vaccination due to trade implications and lack of knowledge around effective dosing and frequency. Dialogue between poultry and dairy sectors is encouraged to better understand strategies that can be implemented for vaccination and disease prevention. Researchers are urged to find solutions regarding how to manage the virus as migration seasons approach, highlighting the need for ongoing biosecurity efforts.
In this episode of The Poultry Podcast Show, Dr. Yuko Sato from Iowa State University shares important updates on avian influenza, covering recent surveillance efforts and biosecurity practices. Dr. Sato sheds light on how the virus spreads between different species, the latest findings from ongoing surveillance, and possible strategies to protect both poultry and dairy farms. Tune in to get a clear picture of the current challenges and essential actions for safeguarding the poultry industry. Don’t miss it!
"The low detection rate of B 313 in wild birds offers some reassurance, but vigilance is still necessary."
Meet the guest:
Dr. Yuko Sato is a poultry extension veterinarian at Iowa State University, specializing in diagnostics, biosecurity assessments, and flock evaluation. She earned her D.V.M. and M.S. in Poultry Diagnostic Medicine from Purdue University and a B.S. in Pre-Veterinary Studies from Berry College. With over nine years in the field, Dr. Sato brings expert insights into poultry health.
