Disease Abstracts
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West Nile Virus: A Very Difficult Definitive Diagnosis
David Scott, DVM, Carolina Raptor Center Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
West Nile Virus (WNV) infection is common in many wildlife species. However, a definitive diagnosis is difficult to achieve. Several diagnostic tests are available but each has advantages and disadvantages. Thirty cases in various raptors with confirmed or suspected WNV infection were included in this study. Various diagnostic tests were run and the results were compared using histopathology of the brain as the gold standard. Ante-mortem diagnosis is rare. While most tests are relatively specific, the sensitivity is low so a negative result has very poor diagnostic value. All suspect cases should be treated early and aggressively. |
Mange in Foxes: Following the Evolution of an Epizootic
Lynn Miller South Florida Wildlife Center Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
Sarcoptic mange has probably always been present in the fox populations on Cape Cod; however, the region appears to have been experiencing an epizootic event over the past four years. The impact is seen on many levels, with unexpected issues affecting wildlife rehabilitation. This presentation explores all the aspects of this event from the impact for wildlife, pet dogs, and human welfare to species level issues and a novel treatment. |
A New Approach for
Treating Avian Botulism Marie Travers, January Bill, Bird Ally X Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
In August and September 2018, Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex responded to an avian botulism (Clostridium botulinum) outbreak that affected thousands of birds. Bird Ally X (BAX) was contacted shortly after to manage the rehabilitation of live birds collected. When staff initially arrived at the remote field outpost, there were already birds on site and few supplies available. With a response staff of two, support from refuge staff, and the assistance of volunteers and interns, BAX staff were able to create a functional wildlife hospital and treated 474 birds, successfully releasing over 80% of patients that survived the first 24 hours. This required modifying standard botulism treatment plans to a more hands-off approach where birds were allowed to self-hydrate in pools. This system proved extremely successful and resulted in reduced handling and stress for patients and a more manageable workload for staff. |