An early warning system for highly pathogenic viruses borne by waterbird species and related dynamics of climate change in the Caspian Sea region: Outlines of a concept

Abstract

Aim. Formulation of the outlines of the concept of ViEW (Viral Early Warning) which is intended as a long term system of multidisciplinary transboundary cooperation between specialist institutions of all five Caspian region states to research, regularly monitor and share data about the generation, transmission and epidemiology of avian‐borne pathogens and their vectors in the region, and the ways climate change may affect these processes.Material and Methods. The concept is based on the multidisciplinary experience of the authors in researching the processes incorporated in the ViEW concept and on an in‐depth survey of the literature involved.Results. The outlines of the ViEW concept are presented in this study for review and comment by interested parties and stakeholders.Conclusion. Review of activities and opinions of specialists and organizations with remits relating to the development, establishment and maintenance of ViEW, indicates that such a system is a necessity for global animal and human health because of the role that the Caspian region plays in the mass migration of species of waterbird known as vectors for avian influenza and the already evident impacts of climate change on their phenologies. Waterbirds frequenting the Caspian Sea littorals and their habitats together constitute a major potential global hotspot or High Risk region for the generation and transmission of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses and other dangerous zoonotic diseases.

Avian Influenza Virus and Avian Paramyxoviruses in Wild Waterfowl of the Western Coast of the Caspian Sea (2017–2020)

“…In addition, similar segments of the influenza virus genome were found in Bangladesh (i.e., in south Asia), as well as in Egypt, the Sinai Peninsula, and northeast Africa. Genetically similar genome segments have also been identified in influenza viruses isolated in Georgia, which suggests the possibility of the spread of avian influenza viruses between the Caspian and Black Seas [ 40 ].…”

“…The continued regular monitoring of AIVs and APMVs, the obtaining of data on the biological properties of isolated strains, and the accumulation of information on virus host species will allow for adequate future planning of epidemiological measures, suggest the most likely routes of spread of the virus, and assist in the prediction of the introduction of the virus in the western coastal region of the middle Caspian Sea [ 40 ].…”

Pinnipeds and avian influenza: a global timeline and review of research on the impact of highly pathogenic avian influenza on pinniped populations with particular reference to the endangered Caspian seal (Pusa caspica)

“…The current updated proposal for ViEW, in response to the present review, is that it would integrate both Caspian seal and avifauna monitoring (Petherbridge et al, 2023) (Figure 14). It is also proposed that programs integrating the monitoring of both seals and coastal birds should be put in place within the 2003 Framework Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea ("Tehran Convention") and with the involvement of experienced locally-based specialists (particularly those of member institutions of the Association of Universities and Scientific Research Centers of Caspian Region States) who understand not only the scientific issues but who are also best able to navigate the historical, political and sociocultural contexts within which such programs may be effectively negotiated, established and managed.…”

Does Avian Coronavirus Co-Circulate with Avian Paramyxovirus and Avian Influenza Virus in Wild Ducks in Siberia?

“…At the same time, there has been no study on viral co-infections in birds in Europe, with the exception of a detailed significant work on three infections in wild Mallards [ 35 ], although the probability of such co-infections in European wild birds would seem to be high. Such work is necessary for the development of monitoring systems for multiple bird infections, for example, similar to those that were created for the highly pathogenic avian influenza [ 36 ].…”