Ecology and biology of HPAIV H5 (Kappa-Flu)

The global emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses and the subsequent adaptation to wild birds has resulted in record mortality of wild birds and poultry and is developing into an enzootic threat for wildlife, poultry and human health in Europe. The ongoing evolution of HPAI viruses is expanding their geographical distribution and host range. To deal with this global problem, KAPPA-FLU brings together top experts from Europe, North America and Asia. The overall objective of KAPPA-FLU is the characterization of key viral, host-related and environmental factors that determine the maintenance and the long-distance spread of HPAI viruses in wild birds, with the goal of improving capacities for risk-based surveillance, prevention and control of HPAI in poultry and wildlife, and its potential impact on human health. KAPPA-FLU will follow three research themes. Theme A (Disease ecology) provides a deep understanding of the population dynamics of HPAI viruses in migratory waterbirds and spill-over hosts, both resident wildlife and poultry, through risk-based surveillance strategies, and accounting for the impact of climate change. Theme B (Virology) studies the evolution of HPAI viruses in wild birds and poultry and the resulting increasing risk to humans and other mammals. Based on the above results, theme C (Agro-ecosystem risk) identifies and models prevention and control strategies (including vaccination) using machine learning algorithms. Actors from different sectors of society will, through the Multi-Actor Panel, play key roles in translating results into policy and practice. In this way, KAPPA-FLU will make stepwise advances in knowledge of the population dynamics and evolution of HPAI, and thus contribute to a sustainable poultry production system and improved public health.