Wild bird infections and the ecology of avian influenza viruses

Our current understanding of the natural history of avian influenza viruses (AIVs) in wild bird populations is extensive but not complete. In this chapter we provide an overview of our current understanding of wild bird reservoirs for AIV, and their potential role in the maintenance and spread of low pathogenic and highly pathogenic AIV. We also identify knowledge gaps and evolving concerns that need to be addressed in future research.