Infections with avian influenza viruses (AIVs) can cause severe respiratory illness with high fatality rates in humans. Live bird markets (LBMs) are known to facilitate recombination and transmission of AIVs with pandemic potential.
To address this issue, the Virology Laboratory at the Institut Pasteur du Laos has received a $150,000 grant from the International Pathogen Surveillance Network (IPSN), to establish a pilot genomic surveillance program to characterize AIVs from LBMs in Northern and Central Laos. Samples from the environment and poultry will be collected and screened for AIV to identify risk factors for exposure. The work is expected to provide early-warning of AIVs with pandemic potential in Laos, and help policymakers make informed public health decisions.
Grant recipients with representatives from funding bodies.
Sample collection at LBMs, Luang Prabang, November 2024.
For more information: “International Pathogen Surveillance Network announces first recipients of grants to better understand disease threats”. https://www.who.int/news/item/26-11-2024-international-pathogen-surveillance-network-announces-first-recipients-of-grants-to-better-understand-disease-threats
