Two novel reassortant H11N8 avian influenza viruses occur in wild birds found in East Dongting Lake, China

During the surveillance of avian influenza viruses in East Dongting Lake, China (2014-2015), two H11N8 avian influenza viruses were detected in the bean goose (Anser fabalis) and the falcated teal (Anas falcata). Phylogenetic analysis showed that these two novel reassortant H11N8 avian influenza viruses contain genes from poultry and wild birds. This is the first report detecting the H11N8 subtype influenza virus from wild birds in Asia. These findings indicate a dissemination of avian influenza virus along the East Asian-Australian flyway. In addition, the interaction between poultry and wild birds was addressed suggesting the need for intensive surveillance of wild bird populations.