A study used MPI surveillance data from 2004-2020 to show that NZ’s resident ducks tend to be the main carriers of low pathogenic avian influenza. There was only limited evidence of flu virus in migratory birds, suggesting there has previously been a low risk of severe outbreak, however the study authors say this could change as new strains emerge.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original entry at https://www.sciencemediacentre.co.nz/2024/06/11/nzs-wild-birds-have-been-safe-from-severe-bird-flu-so-far-expert-reaction/