PROFESSIONAL VERSION
Highlands J (HJ) virus (family Togaviridae, genus Alphavirus) is closely related to western equine encephalitis virus and can cause encephalitis in chukar partridges.
Chukars exhibit somnolence, fluffed feathers, and recumbency before death. HJ virus infection in this species is associated with high mortality rates.
When present, microscopic lesions primarily consist of nonpurulent meningoencephalitis and focal myocardial necrosis.
HJ virus is a potential cause of decreased egg production in turkeys. The virus has been identified only in eastern parts of the US. Culiseta melanura is considered the primary mosquito vector, and similar to EEE virus, passerine birds are believed to serve as virus-amplifying hosts.
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