Summary
This cross-sectional serosurvey of backyard poultry in Lahore district, Pakistan (July–August 2009) examined the prevalence of avian influenza virus subtypes H5, H7, and H9 in 210 serum samples from 210 chickens across 35 village clusters. The study found very high overall seroprevalence (65.2%), predominantly driven by H9 (62.0%), and identified purchasing birds from markets or receiving them as gifts as a significant risk factor (5.7-fold increase in seropositivity). The findings underscore the epidemiological importance of rural backyard poultry systems in Pakistan and highlight the need for continuous surveillance to mitigate avian influenza risk.
UK applicability
The findings have limited direct applicability to UK poultry systems, which are predominantly commercial and subject to stricter biosecurity regulations and surveillance protocols. However, the study's emphasis on surveillance methodology and the epidemiological importance of source-related risk factors may inform UK policy regarding imported poultry products and disease monitoring in small-scale or hobby flocks.
Key measures
Seroprevalence of AIV subtypes H5, H7, and H9 (measured by haemagglutination inhibition test); odds ratios for risk factors including bird source and housing system; flock size; purpose of keeping poultry
Outcomes reported
The study determined seroprevalence of avian influenza viruses (H5, H7, and H9) in backyard poultry flocks and identified associated risk factors including source of birds and housing systems. Overall weighted seroprevalence for AIVs was 65.2%, with H9 at 62.0%, H5 at 6.9%, and H7 at 0%.
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