Passive immunity to West Nile virus provides limited protection in a common passerine species
Nemeth, N.M.; Oesterle, P.T.; Bowen, R.A.
American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene 79(2): 283-290
2008
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9637 PMID: 18689637 Document Number: 622099
Passerine birds have played an important role in the establishment, maintenance, and spread of West Nile virus (WNV) in North America, and some are susceptible to WNV-associated mortality. Characterization of passive transfer of anti-WNV antibodies in passerines is important to understanding transmission and demographic effects of WNV on wild birds. We showed passively acquired maternal antibodies to WNV in the house sparrow (Passer domesticus).