Detection and Genomic Characterization of an Avian Influenza Virus Subtype H5N1 (Clade 2.3.4.4b) Strain Isolated from a Pelican in Peru

Surveillance helps us identify and monitor strains with zoonotic potential. A tracheal swab from a pelican on a Peruvian beach was H5N1 positive (clade 2.3.4.4b) using Oxford Nanopore's MinION platform. The near-complete genome sequence of strain VFAR-140 will aid us in understanding avian influenza epidemiology and spread.