Isolation of low-pathogenic H7N3 avian influenza from wild birds in Peru

Abstract

Wild birds serve as natural reservoirs and sometimes harbor low-pathogenic avian influenza viruses. However, mutation of the virus can result in highly pathogenic strains, often more common among H5 and H7 genotypes. We report the isolation of a lowpathogenic H7N3 avian influenza in a Peruvian wetland. © Wildlife Disease Association 2011.