bioRxivMicrobiologyPreprint
First Usutu virus detections in wild birds in Scotland, 2025
Andra‐Maria IonescuiD, Ben P. JonesiD, Robert C. Bruce, Fiona Mccraken, Nicholas JohnsoniD, Charlotte Clough, Caroline Robinson, Heather Stevenson, Fiona HowieiD, G. W. KirbyiD, Meshach Lee, Kieran Killen, Davide M. DominoniiD, Paul Baker, Emma L. DaviesiD, Ryan M. CarmichaeliD, Jean-Philippe ParvyiD, Emilie PondevilleiD, Heather M. FergusoniD, Arran J. FollyiD
Abstract
In summer 2025, several Eurasian Blackbird (Turdus merula) deaths were reported on the Isle of Arran in Scotland. Initial investigation included post-mortem examination, where no diagnosis was achieved. Following Orthoflavivirus and avian paramyxovirus testing, Usutu virus RNA was detected in two Blackbirds by reverse transcription-PCR. Phylogenetic analysis identified Usutu virus Africa 3.2 lineage which clustered closely with existing UK detections, indicating geographic expansion rather than a new incursion. Subsequent surveillance confirmed the presence of several potential mosquito vector species.
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