An inverse association between West Nile virus serostatus and avian malaria infection status.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Various ecological and physiological mechanisms might influence the probability that two or more pathogens may simultaneously or sequentially infect a host individual. Concurrent infections can have important consequences for host condition and fitness, including elevated mortality risks. In addition, interactions between coinfecting pathogens may have important implications for transmission dynamics.

Methods

Here, we explore patterns of association between two common avian pathogens (West Nile virus and avian malaria parasites) among a suburban bird community in Chicago, IL, USA that share mosquito vectors. We surveyed 1714 individual birds across 13 species for both pathogens through established molecular protocols.

Results

Field investigations of haemosp

SUBMITTER: Medeiros MC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4262112 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature