Pathogenicity of clade 2.3.2.1 H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza virus in American kestrel (Falco sparverius)

Abstract

ABSTRACT Birds of prey, including endangered species, have been infected with H5 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) in several countries. In this present study, we assessed the pathogenicity of the clade 2.3.2.1 H5N1 HPAIV in American kestrels (Falco sparverius) with a view to preventing future outbreaks in raptors. The kestrels were intranasally inoculated with the virus or fed the meat of chicks that had died from viral infection. Kestrels in both groups initially had reduced food intake, showed clinical signs such as depression and neurologic manifestations, and succumbed to the infection within 6 days. The kestrels primarily shed the virus orally from 1 day post-inoculation until death, with an average titre of 104.5–5.7 EID50/ml, which is comparable to the inoculum titre. The viruses replicated in almost all tested tissues; notably, the feather calamuses also contained infectious virions and/or viral genes. Pancreatic lesions were present in several infected birds, as shown in previous cases of HPAIV infection in raptors. These results indicate that kestrels are highly susceptible to infection by clade 2.3.2.1 H5 HPAIVs, which readily occurs through the consumption of infected bird carcasses. Early detection and removal of HPAIV infected carcasses in the field is essential for preventing outbreaks in raptors. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS Clade 2.3.2.1 H5 HPAIV caused lethal infection in American kestrels. Kestrels with the HPAIV showed neurologic signs and eye disorders. The HPAIV replicated in systemic tissues of kestrels, and was orally shed. The HPAIV was recovered from feather calamus of kestrels.