DOC Vaccine Trial: A Bulwark Against Extinction
DAN MOSKOVITZ (HE/HIM)
DOC’s native bird vaccination trial against avian influenza—the avian pandemic which has killed millions of wild birds and poultry but has yet to arrive in Aotearoa—has succeeded in its first stage.
Ten individuals of five species—kakī/black stilt, takahē, kākāpō, tūturuatu/shore plover, and red-crowned parakeet/kākārik—were selected for their low population numbers and reliance on captive breeding. They were given two jabs, one month apart.
Seven months on, and so far so good. All birds are healthy and producing antibodies, signifying an immune response.
“The second phase of the trial is still underway and will be completed by July 2025. This involves regular health assessments and blood tests of the birds,” DOC’s Biosecurity manager Claire Stringer told Salient.
“Initial tests show antibodies have been detected in all five species. However, we need to wait until the trial is complete for more conclusive results.”
Because the vaccine requires two doses and wild birds are untrackable, this isn’t divine intervention. Rather, it’s a targeted tool which DOC could use to prevent extinction in subpopulations under active management.
A recent laboratory trial in the Netherlands recently found vaccinating poultry effective, and the Dutch are now piloting vaccinating commercial poultry.
The Ministry for Primary Industries told Salient that vaccination of commercial poultry was a decision for industry to make, though this could only occur after the disease’s incursion.
If you encounter a bird showing symptoms of avian influenza, please take a video and call Biosecurity New Zealand on their 0800 80 99 66 hotline. Symptoms include falling over, twisting their neck to look upwards, lethargy, and drooping heads. Three or more dead birds is also reason to contact Biosecurity.
Do not touch any bird showing symptoms.