Thirst for Knowledge: Genomics to the rescue - HPAI

Genomics to the rescue - preparing Aotearoa for highly pathogenic avian influenza virus

Wild aquatic birds harbour many viruses, but their role in virus transmission in Aotearoa remains unclear. Limited surveillance and resources leave our country unprepared for the arrival of highly pathogenic avian influenza and its inevitable impacts on wildlife, agriculture, and human health. To address this, over 1,300 sea, shore, and water birds were sampled across Aotearoa and its outer islands. Dr Stephanie Waller from the Microbiology and Immunology Department at the University of Otago analysed their viruses using metatranscriptomics. In this month’s talk Stephanie will share the progress that has been made towards uncovering how avian viruses, especially avian influenza virus, evolve and spread, helping identify key sites and species for future monitoring.