CSIC scientists confirm for the first time the presence of avian influenza virus in Antarctica

Scientists from the Center for Molecular Biology of Severo Ochoa of the High Council for Scientific Research (CSIC) have confirmed for the first time the presence of a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus in Antarctica through two samples of dead skuas, a discovery that will allow “readiness” to avoid anthropogenic transmission Infection, most importantly, Prevent personal infection.

He announced the news in a statement on Sunday Department of ScienceIncludes scientific centers in collaboration with the International Antarctic Organization’s Scientific Committee for Antarctic Research (SCAR) and the Committee for the Management of National Antarctic Programs (COMNAP).

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Specifically, the virus was found in two samples dead skuadiscovered by Argentine scientists near the Argentine Antarctic base “Primavera”.

The samples were obtained using “maximum protective measures to avoid transmission of the virus to humans,” the ministry detailed. Once the sample is collected, the virus in it is immediately inactivated so that it can be safely studied. “

Analysis includes Influenza virus specific PCR and H5 subtype, “conclusively” indicating that the birds were infected with H5 subtype avian influenza, and that at least one of the dead birds contained highly pathogenic avian influenza virus.

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As highlighted in the statement, this discovery is the first demonstration of a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus Despite the distance and natural barriers, we reach Antarctica This separates it from other continents.this discovery Could also explain the death of birds Recorded during the Antarctic summer.

Although mass die-offs of some birds have been reported in the Antarctic region, No country has confirmed the presence of the virus in Antarctica.. In November, Spain launched a protocol against highly pathogenic avian influenza before the Antarctic operation began.

*Information prepared by Europa Press