Global Avian Influenza Network for Surveillance

The aim of the Wild Bird Global Avian Influenza Network for Surveillance (GAINS) program is to expand operational field capabilities, improve the understanding of viral strains and transmission of influenza viruses in wild birds, and to disseminate information to all levels of governments, international organizations, the private sector and the general public.

GAINS is establishing a global surveillance network of wild birds by: improving the collection, coordination, and laboratory evaluation of samples from wild birds in order to identify locations of avian influenza viral strains; identifying genetic changes in virus isolates; enhancing links with wild bird distribution and migration information, and providing an early warning system for global spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) that threatens domestic poultry and human health as well as biodiversity (particularly avian).

The GAINS program and partners work in and travel to areas of importance in key migratory routes, as well as in areas where it is necessary to consult with reference laboratories, and local, national, and international agencies involved in avian influenza preparedness and response. These individuals and organizations not only work in an advisory capacity to host governments and local/national organizations by providing technical input into wild bird surveillance programs, but emphasize transfer of technical capacity to local staff where needed.  The GAINS staff and collaborators create, update, and make available information related to wild bird avian influenza surveillance and migratory bird activity through a comprehensive database which also includes agency reports, scientific publications, news, etc.