To:       Guam Rail SSP Holding Institutions

 

From:   Deidre K. Fontenot, DVM

Veterinary advisor for Guam rail

 

Re:       Avian Influenza (H5N1) surveillance and vaccination

I have not received any inquiries into Avian Influenza (AI)  vaccination in this species.  However, SSPs have been encouraged to utilize this vaccine; however, the SSP does not recommend vaccination at this time.  Screening has not been implemented in this species at this time, choanal/ cloacal swabs for isolation is the recommended screening tool.  I have not been notified of any Guam rails that have tested positive for any AI serotypes. 

Please notify the SSP if you have intent to perform vaccine trials on any rails. 

If you have any questions please let me know.

Deidre K. Fontenot

Veterinarian, Animal Programs

Disney's Animal Kingdom

1200 N. Savannah Cir. E

Bay Lake, FL 32830

Office (407) 939-6238, FAX 407-939-6391

EMAIL: deidre.k.fontenot@disney.com