We examined the feathers of Japanese domestic ducks and geese inoculated with two different genotypes of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses isolated in Japan. Inoculated birds did not show apparent clinical signs. However, viral antigens were detected in feather epidermal cells in both ducks and geese by immunohistochemistry. Electron microscopy revealed round viral particles replicating in feather epidermal cells. Viruses were re-isolated from the skin of domestic ducks and geese. These results suggest that dropped feathers from domestic ducks and geese infected with current H5N1 avian influenza viruses can be sources of infection to other unaffected animals.
(Research Team for Viral Diseases, TEL +81-29-838-7708)
Reference:
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- Yamamoto et al. (2007) Avian Dis. 51 : 52-57.
