Bird Flu Center

Routine tests on two wild swans form the shore of Lake Erie discovered the birds to be infected with a mild form of the avian influenza virus. It doesn’t appear to be the deadly Asian subtype that has ravaged poultry in the Eastern hemisphere, as initial testing ruled out the possibility of this being the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain. A local official confirmed the findings and said there is no reason to believe the virus could represent a risk to human health. Further laboratory tests are needed, however, and it is not until in two weeks time that a positive statement will be made as to the exact nature of the virus. The Unites States have a massive new program which is set to test up to 100,000 wild birds across the country, for an early detection of a possible entry of the feared H5N1 virus into North America. Waterfowl is known to be the virus’ natural host and wild birds are able to carry the virus for long distances along their path and pass it on to domestic poultry or other wild birds.

The Washington National Zoo has removed the ducks and chickens usually on display in the Kids’ section, both as a precaution against a possible bird flu infection and also to secure a degree of comfort among visitors. Other wild birds currently kept there, such as emus, vultures, shriekers and hummingbirds, were not targeted by this measure.

The highly pathogenic bird flu virus has not been yet found neither in Washington, nor in other states, however millions of birds have been killed in Asia and the disease is believed to be spreading fast.

Zoo officials declared the birds were relocated to its research center in Front Royal, Virginia and this action was only part of a number of safeguards put in place for the health of its bird collection. The establishment is also using a surveillance program and disinfectant foot baths for its workers.