Introduction of Eurasian-Origin Influenza A(H8N4) Virus into North America by Migratory Birds

Emerg Infect Dis. 2018 Oct;24(10):1950-1953. doi: 10.3201/eid2410.180447.

Abstract

We identified a Eurasian-origin influenza A(H8N4) virus in North America by sampling wild birds in western Alaska, USA. Evidence for repeated introductions of influenza A viruses into North America by migratory birds suggests that intercontinental dispersal might not be exceedingly rare and that our understanding of viral establishment is incomplete.

Keywords: Alaska; H8N4; North America; USA; United States; influenza; influenza A(H8N4); introduction; migratory birds; virus; viruses; wild birds.

Publication types

  • Letter
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Alaska
  • Animal Migration*
  • Animals
  • Animals, Wild
  • Birds / virology*
  • High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing
  • Influenza A virus / classification
  • Influenza A virus / genetics*
  • Influenza in Birds / epidemiology*
  • Influenza in Birds / transmission
  • Influenza in Birds / virology*
  • North America
  • Phylogeny
  • Public Health Surveillance
  • RNA, Viral

Substances

  • RNA, Viral