1. Domestic Ducks as Potential Reservoir of Avian Influenza Virus in Post HPAI H5N1 Outbreak Area, Sunyani Municipality. Vitus Burimuah (DVM) Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (GFELTP).

2. Introduction Avian influenza (AI) is a viral disease of varied etiology. Naturally affects avian species. Also affects swine, equine and man. Waterfowls are asymptomatic carriers of AI virus infection. Threat of a pandemic due to worldwide spread. History of HPAI H5N1 outbreak in poultry in study area, May 2007.

3. Objectives General Determine the presence of H5N1 in ducks in the Sunyani Municipality. Specific Determine the prevalence of AI virus in duck populations. Characterize any AI viruses circulating in the study area. Assess adherence to bio-security measures in duck farms.

4. Methods 1/2 Brong Ahafo region Population 177,301 (2012 census) 60% of inhabitants into agric. Poultry population 2,503,559, 1% ducks (MOFA, 2005)

5. DATA COLLECTION Cloacal swabs (384) RNA Extraction and purification rRT- PCR Test results Data analysed Questionnaire administration 48 farm workers interviewed Biosecurity Husbandry 48 farm workers interviewed Biosecurity Husbandry Methods 2/2 Data Collection, Processing and Analysis.

6. Results All 384 samples tested NEGATIVE for Influenza Type A viruses. No circulating AIV was detected. Disinfection not patronized by 67% (32/48) of respondents. 89% (14/16) of bio-security practices investigated were not observed.

7. Conclusion There was no evidence of AI virus infection in domestic ducks in the study area. Bio-security adherence was poor in the 9 sites. There is a strong risk of re-introduction and spread of the HPAI AI virus. Continuous surveillance necessary for early detection and response.

8. Public Health Action VSD has strengthen existing surveillance activities for AI in high risk areas. VSD has intensified bio-security, poultry management and sanitation awareness creation among farmers and the public. VSD now monitors poultry farms to ensure bio- security practices are adequately applied.

9. Acknowledgements Dr. William Ampofo Prof. B. Awumbilla Dr. N. Yebuah Prof. Edwin Afari Dr. S.O. Sackey Dr. Priscilla Nortey Staff of SPH Staff of Virology Department, NMIMR Staff of Vet. Services Department, Sunyani