Scientists Monitor Avian Influenza in Antarctica
The emergence of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAI) H5N1 in Antarctica remains a central focus of international research. Ongoing studies aim to detect the spread of the virus and assess its potential impact on the continent’s fragile wildlife populations at an early stage.
Coordinated Monitoring in Antarctica
For three years, the Instituto Antártico Chileno (INACH), together with researchers from the Universidad de Chile, has been running a systematic monitoring program. Environmental and biological samples from healthy, sick, and deceased animals are collected and analyzed to detect the virus as early as possible.
According to Dr. Víctor Neira Ramírez, H5N1 has so far only been detected in isolated dead specimens, including skuas, Antarctic shags, Adélie penguins, kelp gulls, and Antarctic fur seals. No large-scale mass mortality has been recorded to date, although individual sites continue to be closely monitored.
Reliable Diagnostics and Fieldwork
Diagnosis follows clearly defined protocols. In remote areas, rapid antigen tests are initially used to provide a preliminary assessment. Suspected cases are subsequently confirmed through highly precise real-time PCR testing in the laboratory and reported to Chile’s Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG).
During recent Antarctic expeditions, monitoring efforts were expanded to include hard-to-reach regions of the Antarctic Peninsula. This logistical extension is considered an important step toward a more accurate assessment of the epidemiological situation.
Research for Long-Term Preparedness
Monitoring is supported by several national research projects funded, among others, by the National Agency for Research and Development (ANID) and the National Antarctic Science Program (PROCIEN). The focus lies on the virus’s distribution, genetic evolution, and possible adaptation to Antarctic wildlife species.
Particular attention is given to genome sequencing of positive samples. This provides crucial insights into the origin and evolution of the virus and helps explain why certain species are more affected than others.
According to current knowledge, there is no evidence of an acute threat to entire populations. Nevertheless, researchers emphasize that continuous and coordinated monitoring remains essential to identify potential risks to Antarctica’s unique wildlife at an early stage.
Heiner Kubny, PolarJournal
