Countermeasures for avian influenza outbreaks among captive avian collections at zoological gardens and aquariums in Japan

Abstract

Japan is situated along the East Asian Flyway which is an important migratory route Outbreaks of infectious disease could impact bird populations along this route and is expected to have a negative influence on captive bird populations Here we provide a brief overview of the situation regarding avian influenza AI in both free ranging and captive avian species in Japan We also suggest suitable countermeasures for the prevention and management of AI outbreaks in zoological gardens and aquariums with special reference to the control of free ranging duck populations and or individuals and the nationwide surveillance of AI viruses Furthermore we have disclosed the prominence of vaccination program for zoological collections in Japan nbsp