Results of the influenza virus surveillance in wild birds in Western part of Mongolia

Objective: To present results of virological study of wild birds inhabiting Western Mongolia. Methods: Over a period of 2003-2008, we isolated 13 influenza A viruses: H1N1, H3N6, H13N8 and H4N6 subtypes. We did not isolate any H5N1 subtype, that still cause epizooty in wild birds and poultry. Results: We revealed taxonomic and ecological heterogeneity of the birds involved in maintenance of circulation of influenza viruses in the given territory. Influenza viruses were isolated front birds of 6 orders; among them there are species preferring water and semi aquatic biotopes, one species preferring city plain region, and also one species which can inhabit both dry and water biotopes. Conclusions: Representatives of all main orders of Western Mongolia avifauna are involved in support of influenza A virus circulation, highly pathogenic H5N1 influenza viruses were registered in Mongolia thus it's necessary to continue permanent influenza virus surveillance in wild birds' populations.