Circulation of West Nile Virus and Usutu Virus in Birds in Germany, 2021 and 2022.

According to a preprint abstract, a study conducted in Germany found an increase in the circulation of Usutu virus (USUV) and West Nile virus (WNV) in birds in 2021 and 2022. The study collected over 2300 live bird blood samples and organs from over 3000 deceased birds from various locations in Germany. The results showed that both viruses were circulating more widely, with USUV expanding westward and WNV showing an increase in the number of birds carrying antibodies against it. The study suggests that the emergence of WNV in new locations in Germany could potentially lead to an increase in human infections. The researchers emphasize the importance of wild bird monitoring as an early-warning system in a One Health approach. [Extracted from the article]