Early detection of avian influenza infection sources using viral particle detection in environmental samples

Project goal:

The main goal of the project is to propose an economically efficient and non-invasive method of early warning against the spread of the avian influenza virus (HPAI) in poultry farms, which will prevent the subsequent widespread liquidation of entire farms. Early detection of infection sources will be achieved by analyzing environmental samples systematically collected in natural water bodies with a significant presence of wild birds (surface water, sediments, droppings) and in poultry farms (dust, smears, aerosol, litter).

The sub-goals are (1) designing a methodology for sample collection and analysis incl. appropriate follow-up measures when positive samples occur, (2) identifying mechanisms of primary infection, and (3) understanding the secondary spread of infection in the farm.