Laridae: A neglected reservoir that could play a major role in avian influenza virus epidemiological dynamics

Abstract

Avian influenza viruses (AIVs) are of great concern worldwide due to their economic impact and the threat they represent to human health. As wild birds are the natural reservoirs of AIVs, understanding AIV dynamics in different avian taxa is essential for deciphering the epidemiological links between wildlife, poultry and humans. To date, only the Anatidae (ducks, geese and swans) have been widely studied. Here, we aim to shed light on the current state of knowledge on AIVs in Laridae (gulls, terns and kittiwakes) versus that in Anatidae by setting forth four fundamental questions: how, when, where and to which host species are AIVs transmitted? First, we describe ecological differences between Laridae and Anatidae and discuss how they may explain observed contrasts in preferential transmission routes and the evolution of specific AIV subtypes. Second, we highlight the dissimilarities in the temporal patterns of AIV shedding between Laridae and Anatidae and address the role that immunity likely plays in shaping these patterns. Third, we underscore that Laridae may be key in promoting intercontinental exchanges of AIVs. Finally, we emphasize the crucial epidemiological position that Laridae occupy between wildlife, domestic birds and humans.

Keywords: Disease reservoir; gull; life history traits; pathogen dispersal; tern.