How does avian influenza spread among birds?
Infected birds shed influenza virus in their saliva, nasal secretions, and faeces. Susceptible birds become infected when they have contact with contaminated excretions or with surfaces that are contaminated with excretions or secretions. Domesticated birds may become infected with avian influenza virus through direct contact with infected waterfowl or other infected poultry or through contact with surfaces (such as dirt or cages) or materials (such as water or feed) that have been contaminated with the virus.
Dr. Thomas DeLiberto National Wildlife Coordinator Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, USDA Typically wild birds carry avian influenza in their gastro-intestinal tract and they spread it through their fecal droppings. Under normal circumstances these viruses cause these birds no problem at all. The birds ingest the virus, usually through contact with other birds or through contaminated water. The rare case is this H5N1 virus that’s circulating through the world today. Under these circumstances the virus is spread through not only their gastro-intestinal tract in their fecal droppings, but also more importantly, through their respiratory secretions.
