National Wildlife Health Center Newsletter - Summer 2023
In this issue of the National Wildlife Health Center Newsletter, we feature research related to chronic wasting disease, highly pathogenic avian influenza infections in mammals, SARS-CoV-2, and white-nose syndrome. We also highlight the recent workshop reimagining wildlife surveillance and provide an update on WHISPers.
Examining PRNP gene frequencies and ‘resistance’ to chronic wasting disease
Multiple studies have demonstrated that various alleles of the cervid prion protein (PRNP) gene affect chronic wasting disease (CWD) progression.
Application of a systems approach for management of chronic wasting disease
The USGS National Wildlife Health Center, Montana Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, Ventana Systems, Inc., and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR) are applying a systems approach to map and model the complex relationships among ecological, epidemiological, social, and political processes affecting CWD. Through a participatory modeling process, we gathered subject matter expertise on CWD epidemiology, social science, and deer and forest health and integrated it with empirical data collected by the WIDNR on processes influencing CWD dynamics and management.
Research to understand SARS-CoV-2 risks for wildlife
Multiple research endeavors at the USGS National Wildlife Health Center are ongoing to help assess the possible impacts of SARS-CoV-2 on wildlife.
Can we transition to actionable surveillance for wildlife health: A workshop summary
New study describes HPAI infections in wild mammals in US
Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus (HPAIv) has been present in North America since its first detection in wild birds in November 2021 (Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada), and has subsequently spread across the Americas.
White-nose syndrome vaccine update and research on host protection mechanisms
Sixteen years after Pd, the fungus that causes white-nose syndrome in bats, was first recognized in New York, its range now extends to the Rocky Mountains, and it has been definitively detected in all but seven states (Alaska, Arizona, Florida, Hawaii, Nevada, Oregon, and Utah). The National Wildlife Health Center and our partners continue to field test a WNS vaccine for wild bats and to research host mechanisms of protection against Pd.
Planning underway for next phase of WHISPers development
Development planning is underway for the next phase of WHISPers (Wildlife Health Information Sharing Partnership – event reporting system).