Optimization of avian influenza surveillance for human health and poultry production in Benghazi, Libya

The Bioagent Transport and Environmental Modeling System: Avian Influenza Surveillance Index (BioTEMS AISI) model produces a quantitative index that can be evaluated for utility against observed data. The BioTEMS AISI has been demonstrated to correlate with biotic and abiotic factors, particularly biodiversity and physical and chemical soil properties. Highly Pathogenic (HP) H5N1 has not been identified to date in the Eastern U.S. However, numerous strains have been collected from waterfowl. Similar biotic and abiotic factors that may influence the presence and survival of HP H5NI occur in Benghazi, Libya as well as other coastal areas globally. Given the concern by Libyan and U.S. Governments in protecting the Libyan people and poultry from influenza, the BioTEMS AISI model was used to identify optimal monitoring sites for avian influenza in and around Benghazi, Libya. International and state agriculture agencies, health departments, poultry farmers, and poultry processors, can use this technology proactively to monitor for avian influenza virus in the environment. Similar BioTEMS surveillance systems can be developed for monitoring foot and mouth disease and sporadic cases of plague and anthrax in Libya.