EFSA warns unprecedented H5N1 spread among wild birds is fuelling a stronger, wider avian influenza wave across the continent
Europe is grappling with an unusually early and intense wave of bird flu this year as record infections among wild birds accelerate the spread of the virus, according to new findings from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The agency reports that the continent is witnessing one of its sharpest spikes in highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in recent history.
Traditionally, most bird flu outbreaks peak in the autumn migration season. However, this year cases were detected earlier than expected, with large numbers of wild birds—especially common cranes and various waterfowl species—dying across major migratory routes in Germany, France, and Spain. EFSA’s latest assessment highlights nearly 2,900 detections of the H5 virus between September 6 and November 28 in 29 European countries. Out of these, 442 cases occurred in poultry and 2,454 in wild birds, marking an unprecedented surge in wildlife infections.
Lisa Kohnle, EFSA scientific officer, emphasized the exceptional nature of the wave, noting that detections in wild birds have reached levels not seen before. While poultry outbreaks remain comparable to previous years, they are still significantly higher than in 2023 and nearly double those recorded in 2021. Turkeys have been the most affected among farmed birds.
A notable shift this season is the pattern of transmission. Unlike previous years that saw widespread farm-to-farm spread, most current outbreaks appear to originate from infected wild birds. This shift complicates control measures and underscores the role of migratory species in virus movement across borders.
Although human infections remain rare, EFSA reported 19 cases across Cambodia, China, Mexico, and the United States, with two fatalities in Cambodia and the U.S. All human cases were linked to direct exposure to poultry or contaminated environments. The agency also noted fewer outbreaks among mammals compared to the last two years, but warned that mutations enabling human-to-human transmission remain a major concern. Looking ahead, EFSA expects detections to continue rising. However, high mortality among wild birds may lead to stricter biosecurity measures that could help reduce the virus’s spread into poultry farms. Authorities across Europe are closely monitoring the evolving situation as the winter season approaches.
