Animal Impacts of Avian Influenza
Tuesday, August 29, 2006; 12:00–1:00 pm (PST)
Description
This online, interactive session will cover the natural history of avian influenza viruses in wild birds; the current situation with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in wild birds in Asia and Europe; and the avian influenza early detection initiative in the United States. The panel members will address the potential impacts of avian influenza on migratory waterfowl and other wild birds, the poultry industry, and potential associated economic ramifications. Animal health and welfare issues, as well as environmental and potential pet impacts will be discussed.
Presenters
Leonard Eldridge, DVM, joined the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) in October 2004 as the state veterinarian. In June 2005, he was appointed head of the new Animal Services Division within WSDA. Dr. Eldridge has 40 years of experience in the field of large animal veterinary medicine. Dr. Eldridge comes from Idaho, where he previously owned and managed the Lewiston Veterinary Clinic. He also worked as the sales yard veterinarian for the Lewiston Livestock Market. He is a recipient of the "Idaho Veterinarian of the Year" award. Dr. Eldridge enjoys a good partnership with public and private veterinarians to protect the health of both animals and the public.
Kristin Mansfield, DVM, MPVM, has served as the state wildlife veterinarian with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for the past four years. She received her Doctorate and Master’s degrees from the University of California at Davis. Prior to coming to Washington, she worked in private practice as a wildlife veterinarian with the California Department of Fish and Game and with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and as a veterinary medical officer with the California Department of Food and Agriculture. She is currently stationed in Spokane, Washington.
Ron Wohrle, DVM, is an environmental health veterinarian with the Washington Department of Health (DOH) and technical lead for the DOH Zoonotic and Vector-Borne Disease Program. Dr. Wohrle graduated from the Washington State University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1977. He has practiced veterinary medicine and surgery in Washington for many years and has become involved with public health research and practice in the last several years. His experience includes collaboration with local health and the Washington Department of Agriculture Homeland Security work group and Animal Health Program. Dr. Wohrle collaborated with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Get Smart Program to address the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant organisms through judicious use of antimicrobial agents.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this session participants will be able to:
- List the general classes of wild birds that are reservoirs of avian influenza viruses.
- Explain how avian influenza, H5N1, and a worldwide pandemic are different.
- Explain the potential impact Asian H5N1 would have on migratory and wild bird populations and the poultry industry in North America.
- Describe how wild bird surveillance is being used for early detection of the possible arrival of HPAI H5N1 in North America.
- Describe the lead agencies and their roles in avian influenza surveillance and response activities.
- Recognize the appropriate agency to contact for avian influenza related questions and concerns.
Appropriate Audience
- Public health professionals
- Veterinarians
- Epidemiologists
- Environmental health staff
Registration Information
Registration for live events is coordinated by individuals representing our partner organizations in the Northwest. See our registration information to find your nearest contact.
Slides and Related Resources
Session Archive
Play the recorded presentation. [ 14 MB ]
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