Eurasian Tree Sparrows Risk for H5N1 Virus Spread and Human Contamination through Buddhist Ritual: An Experimental Approach

摘要

BackgroundThe Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 virus has dramatically spread throughout Southeast Asia since its first detection in 1997. Merit Release Birds, such as the Eurasian Tree Sparrow, are believed to increase one's positive karma when kissed and released during Buddhist rituals. Since these birds are often in close contact with both poultry and humans, we investigated their potential role in the spread of H5N1 virus.