# 1829
Another indication that asymptomatic ducks may be silently spreading the H5N1 bird flu virus comes from Switzerland, where an apparently healthy looking duck has tested positive for the disease.
Since healthy birds are rarely tested for the virus, we honestly have little idea how prevalent the infection might be. Recent studies have shown that mallard ducks can carry the virus without becoming symptomatic.
Swiss report first bird flu case in 2 years
27 Mar 2008 11:31:52 GMT
Source: Reuters
ZURICH, March 27 (Reuters) - Switzerland reported the first case of H5N1 bird flu in the country in two years in a duck on Sempachersee lake, veterinary authorities said on Thursday.
The duck, the 33rd case of bird flu in Switzerland, showed no signs of illness, the Federal Veterinary Office said in a statement.
The other 32 discovered cases of bird flu were all reported in early 2006, on Lake Geneva and Lake Constance.
Experts fear the H5N1 strain could mutate into a form easily transmitted from person to person, leading to a pandemic that could kill millions worldwide. (Reporting by Sam Cage; Editing by Elizabeth Piper)
