Isolation of a highly pathogenic influenza A virus of subtype H7N3 from a peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus)

A peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) was presented to the Al Safa Falcon C linic in Dubai, United Arab Emirates unable to stand. Four hours after hosp italization, the bird died despite supportive care and calcium disodiumedet ate treatment. The falcon had been on a hunting trip to Syria with its owne r of 2 years, prior to its death. The carcass was submitted to the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory in Dubai where it was subjected to postmorte m examination. Investigations resulted in the isolation of an influenza A v irus subtype H7N3, which proved to be highly pathogenic for chickens.