Investigating Herpesvirus Infections in Australian Wildlife (Old ID 27327)

Australian Wildlife Society
Role

Chief Investigator

Description

Many Australian wildlife populations are considered vulnerable and are threatened by various infectious agents including herpesviruses (HV)s. In Australia, HVs have been identified in wild reptiles, birds and marsupials. However, some of these viruses have been poorly characterised and tehre is a paucity of epidemiological data, which has hampered possible control measures. Also, the lack of sensitive assays for viral surveillancec has led to under-reporting of novel and known HVs in Australia. Therefore, this research will investigate herpesvirus infections in Australian wildlife. Upon completion of this project, we will be able to ascertain the circulating HV species/strains and provide current epidemiological information that could improve managerial practice and strengthen curent conservation efforts in Australia.

Date

01 Jul 2021 - 01 Jul 2023

Project Type

GRANT

Keywords

Herpesvirus infections;Australian wildlife;Freshwater Turtles;Wildbirds;Marsupials;Consensus PCR

Funding Body

Australian Wildlife Society

Amount

1500

Project Team

Paul Horwood