University of Guelph Pioneers Research on Avian Influenza Vaccines

The University of Guelph (U of G) is at the forefront of research aimed at developing effective vaccines against avian influenza, a pressing issue for poultry health in Canada. As of July 2025, Canada does not vaccinate its commercial poultry against avian influenza, relying instead on outbreak control measures such as culling infected flocks and surveillance. This approach, while effective in containing outbreaks, does not provide widespread immunity, making the search for a comprehensive vaccine increasingly urgent.

In this context, Dr. Fatemeh Fazel, a veterinarian and researcher at U of G, is leading innovative efforts to develop mRNA vaccines specifically for birds. Dr. Fazel, who joined the university to pursue her PhD in pathobiology under the mentorship of Dr. Shayan Sharif, one of the world’s foremost avian flu experts, aims to create a vaccine that not only prevents clinical signs of the disease but also curtails the spread of the virus among poultry populations.

Dr. Fazel's journey into avian influenza research began in Iran, where she witnessed the devastating effects of avian flu outbreaks that disrupted food markets and threatened food security. “That time was the moment I decided my future path,” Dr. Fazel remarked. Her experience highlights the broader implications of avian influenza outbreaks, which can have significant economic and social repercussions.

The search for an effective vaccine is critical, as outlined by Dr. Sharif. He emphasizes the necessity for a vaccine that can prevent both the clinical signs of the disease and the shedding of the virus into the environment. The innovative mRNA vaccine platforms under development at U of G can be administered in various ways, including through injections, nasal sprays, or even directly into eggs prior to hatching, facilitating a more versatile response to different strains of the virus.

Dr. Fazel’s research focuses on combating low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI), with the hope that the insights gained will also be applicable to the highly pathogenic variant (HPAI) that is currently prevalent. The adaptability of the mRNA vaccine platform is a key advantage, allowing researchers to quickly modify the vaccine in response to viral mutations. “It is a platform that has been around for three decades now,” Dr. Fazel explained, pointing to its flexibility as a major benefit in the fight against avian influenza.

Despite the promise of mRNA vaccines, challenges remain. Dr. Sharif noted that these vaccines are significantly more expensive than conventional alternatives and require stringent storage conditions, such as ultra-low temperatures, to maintain their effectiveness. Ongoing research aims to enhance the stability and shelf life of these vaccines, ensuring that they can be rapidly deployed in the event of an outbreak.

International collaboration is crucial for the success of vaccination efforts against avian influenza. Dr. Fazel highlighted the importance of coordinated global action, stating, “You can’t have one country decide to vaccinate and another not. We must all be on the same page.” Her commitment to this collaborative approach is influenced by her early experiences volunteering with humanitarian organizations, where she witnessed the impact of global health initiatives.

In conclusion, the University of Guelph is making significant strides in the development of avian influenza vaccines, with the potential to transform poultry health management in Canada and beyond. As researchers continue to innovate and refine vaccine strategies, the future of avian flu prevention appears more promising, contingent upon ongoing research, funding, and international cooperation. The implications of these developments extend beyond poultry health, touching on economic stability and food security in a world increasingly vulnerable to infectious diseases.