Joint research efforts on highly pathogenic avian influenza

Tokyo Sea Life Park is engaged in collaborative research with various research institutions. This time, we will introduce research on highly pathogenic avian influenza (hereinafter referred to as avian influenza) that is being conducted with the Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University.

Avian influenza is a highly infectious disease among birds with a high fatality rate. The risk of infection to humans is low. In recent years, outbreaks have been confirmed in zoos and other facilities in Japan, posing a problem. The basis of this countermeasure is prevention, and measures such as disinfecting vehicles and shoe soles are taken to prevent the virus from being brought in from outside the zoo. However, if an outbreak of avian influenza does occur, until now there has been no proactive way to treat infected birds.

In this situation, previous research in chickens has shown that a human antiviral drug for influenza is effective against avian influenza and is highly safe. It is expected that this drug will also be effective in other species of birds, but because the absorption rate and metabolic rate of the drug differ depending on the species, it is not known whether the same dosage and method as in chickens will be effective.

So, last year, we investigated the use and dosage of this drug in Humboldt Penguin kept at Tokyo Sea Life Park. We fed the Humboldt Penguin fish laced with the drug, then took blood samples at intervals to measure the drug concentration in their blood. This allowed us to analyze how the drug concentration changes in their bodies.

The results indicated that the drug was effective against avian influenza in Humboldt Penguin at the same dosage and method as in chickens. Furthermore, since no side effects were observed, it was also found to be safe for use in Humboldt Penguin.

This research indicates the possibility of treating influenza not only in Humboldt Penguin but also in various types of birds. Providing appropriate treatment could contribute to improving the animal welfare of captive animals.

This year, we plan to conduct trials with Common Murre and Southern Rockhopper Penguin. We will continue to take all necessary precautions against infectious diseases and explore the possibility of treatment.

[Tokyo Sea Life Park]

(January 2, 2026)