Influenza a viruses in wild ducks, findings from a surveillance in north-east Argentina

The major natural reservoir of influenza A viruses are wild aquatic birds. Contrary to the extensive information on the ecology of these viruses in North America and Eurasia, little is known about the presence, movement and ecology of Avian Influenza Viruses (AIV) in South America. Previous studies showed that AIV can infect a wide range of hosts, highlighting the importance of surveillance activities in detecting and preventing a potential transmission to other species. Northeastern Argentina represents a key area for waterfowl, holding some of the highest diversity of species and largest populations, and coinciding with an important area for poultry production. The goal of this study was to determine the frequency and variety of AIV in Anseriformes species of Argentina. Data was collected from 2008-2012 and 2016 in ten different sites located in Entre Ríos, Corrientes, Santa Fe and Buenos Aires Provinces. A total 2119 individuals were sampled of 17 wild duck species. Using Real Time PCR we obtained 42 AIV positive detections from cloacal swabs. Here we report the first isolates of six different AIV subtypes in South America, the first AIV isolates obtained from Anas cyanoptera, Anas flavirostris and Anas georgica in Argentina, and particularly, from Anas versicolor and Sarkidiornis melanotos in South America. Our results summarized the AIV data obtained from wild duck species in Argentina, making a valuable contribution to the understanding of the ecology of AIV in South America, and providing baseline information to facilitate decision making processes for wildlife conservation management.