Bird flu in avian species: understanding the mechanisms of disease (2018-2021)

Influenza virus is a major threat to both domestic and wild bird species. This project seeks to understand the genesis and pathogenesis of influenza virus in avian species. Specifically, this project aims to investigate the role of bacteria in influenza severity in chickens, the role of avian endothelial cells in the emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses and the susceptibility of Australia¿s native black swans to influenza. This project will generate fundamental knowledge that will, ultimately, help reduce the severity of influenza in avian populations and provide a new insight into the anti-viral response of an iconic Australian bird species.