Circulation of influenza A virus among corvids in Northern Kazakhstan

Avian influenza remains a serious threat to public health, agriculture and ecology on a global scale. Monitoring the circulation of influenza A virus among wild birds, particularly corvids, is crucial for detecting and preventing potential outbreaks. In this study, samples collected from rooks and hooded crows in Kostanay, Akmola and Zhambyl regions of Kazakhstan in 2023 were analyzed. Using real-time RT-PCR, influenza A virus was detected in 30% of rooks in Kostanay region and 16.6% of hooded crows in Akmola region. The results confirm the circulation of the virus among corvids in these regions and indicate the need for continuous epizootic monitoring for timely detection and response to possible outbreaks of avian influenza.