Immunity to Mexican H5N2 avian influenza viruses induced by a fowl pox-H5 recombinant

The presence of highly pathogenic H5N2 avian influenza in domestic poultry in Mexico that is not being eradicated by conventional depopulation methods constitutes an imminent problem for poultry producers and agricultural authorities in the United States. The present report considers the candidate vaccines available to H5N2 influenza virus and establishes that a fowl pox-H5 recombinant can provide protection from lethal Mexican H5N2, and prevent shedding in the feces and transmission to contact birds. Inactivated and recombinant vaccines may be useful adjuncts to eradication if the H5N2 influenza virus spreads to the United States or the countries in Central America.