Poultrymed | Infectious Diseases 2026

Sweden's 2025 Zoonosis Report Highlights Critical Avian Pathogen Trends

10 July, 2026

The Swedish Veterinary Agency (SVA), in collaboration with the Public Health Agency of Sweden (Folkhälsomyndigheten), the National Food Agency (Livsmedelsverket), and the Swedish Board of Agriculture (Jordbruksverket), has published its comprehensive annual surveillance report, titled "Smittläget i Sverige för djursjukdomar och zoonoser 2025" (The Infectious Disease Situation in Sweden for Animal Diseases and Zoonoses 2025). The report delivers essential scientific data and epidemiological analyses regarding key avian pathogens – Salmonella, Campylobacter and Avian Influenza, that impacted the Swedish poultry sector and public health in 2025.

HPAI Isolated for the First Time from Fetal Bovine Serum

09 July, 2026

In February 2025, researchers at the Cornell Animal Health Diagnostic Center (AHDC) Virology Laboratory detected and isolated live highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) virus (clade 2.3.4.4b, genotype B3.13) from a commercial lot of fetal bovine serum (FBS) during routine safety screening. This unprecedented discovery highlights a novel biosafety risk in bovine-derived biological products. This study reveals that the virus can penetrate deeper into the bovine systemic circulation, occasionally breaching the placental barrier to reach the fetus.

Salmonella Outbreak in France Linked to Contaminated Eggs from Poland

08 July, 2026

A Salmonella outbreak in France has been traced to contaminated egg imports from Poland, according to an exclusive report by the international food safety publication Food Safety News. According to official information provided to the publication by France's national public health agency (Santé publique France) and the Directorate General for Food (DGAL), at least 16 cases of Salmonella Enteritidis infection have been confirmed, with four patients requiring hospitalization.

Switzerland: A Sharp Spike in Foodborne Outbreaks

08 July, 2026

A new monitoring report for 2025, jointly published by the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) and the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), provides a comprehensive overview of zoonotic and foodborne diseases in Switzerland. While human cases for the most common zoonotic pathogens remained stable or rose slightly, authorities recorded a sharp, unprecedented spike in the number of reported foodborne illness outbreaks.

Denmark Considers Mass Avian Influenza Vaccination for Turkeys

06 July, 2026

After years of relying on strict culling and quarantine measures, Denmark appears poised to shift its strategy against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). According to recent reports, Danish authorities are seriously evaluating the implementation of a nationwide vaccination program for commercial turkey flocks, with vaccinations potentially beginning as early as September. The proposed program represents a major shift in Danish veterinary policy, driven in part by the success of comparable vaccination initiatives elsewhere in Europe.

The Mammary Gland as a Broad Launchpad for Influenza A Viruses

03 July, 2026

German researchers at the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover have successfully developed a scalable bovine mammary gland organoid platform, demonstrating that the udder serves as a highly permissive replication site for diverse mammalian and avian Influenza A strains beyond H5N1. The research team isolated primary epithelial cells from the udders of slaughtered dairy cattle and successfully cultured three-dimensional bovine mammary gland organoids (MGOs). The team utilized this tractability to benchmark contemporary bovine HPAIV H5N1 against low-pathogenic avian (LPAIV) and mammalian-adapted strains.

HPAI Drives Fourfold Increase in Adult Gannet Mortality

03 July, 2026

A study published in Biological Conservation provides the first long-term capture-mark-recapture analysis quantifying the demographic impact of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) on a colonial seabird species, the Northern gannet (Morus bassanus). The findings show that a single multi-year H5N1 outbreak has profoundly altered population dynamics, with recovery projected to take nearly two decades. Northern gannets are long-lived seabirds characterized by high adult survival and low reproductive rates, making population growth highly sensitive to increases in adult mortality. Researchers analyzed 15 years of demographic data from two major UK breeding colonies: Bass Rock (Scotland) and Grassholm (Wales).

Spain Facing Escalating Newcastle Disease Crisis

02 July, 2026

Spain’s poultry sector is on high alert as a highly contagious and virulent resurgence of Newcastle Disease (ND) continues to expand, triggering massive culling operations and prompting aggressive emergency containment protocols. According to the latest data from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the virus has now been confirmed in 19 flocks across the country, collectively involving 1,051,844 birds.

H9N2 in Hungary

26 June, 2026

Hungary reported the detection of the A(H9N2) clade G5.5 virus in April in seven establishments keeping broiler chickens, all located within a single geographical area in the same settlement. Increased mortality in one establishment initially raised suspicion of HPAI; however, the birds tested negative for A(H5) and A(H7) HPAI viruses. Testing for infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) yielded positive results, and pathological examination revealed tracheitis, indicating a clinical presentation consistent with co-infection. This finding prompted additional testing for the A(H9N2) virus.

Investigation into H5N1 Antibodies in a Dutch Dairy Herd

26 June, 2026

The journal Eurosurveillance has published a detailed report on the investigation of H5N1 influenza antibodies detected in a Dutch dairy farm. The incident, which unfolded in January 2026, initially centered on rumors of antibodies in just a single cow, however, the official report reveals a much broader scope. The timeline began in December 2025, when a four-month-old domestic cat residing on a dairy farm in the Netherlands fell ill and tested positive for the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus, specifically clade 2.3.4.4b and genotype DI.2.1. This concerning finding immediately triggered a comprehensive epidemiological investigation of all livestock on the premises.

Bovine H5N1 Efficiently Replicates in Human Upper Airway Cells

25 June, 2026

A new study demonstrates that a bovine H5N1 influenza virus replicates as efficiently in differentiated human nasal epithelial cells as the 2009 pandemic H1N1 strain. While human spillover cases have occurred via close animal contact, sustained human-to-human transmission has not been observed. A critical bottleneck preventing avian influenza from spreading efficiently among humans is its typical inability to replicate robustly in the cooler environment (25-330C( of the human upper respiratory tract. To investigate this barrier, researchers utilized a advanced three-dimensional model of primary human nasal epithelial (HNE) cultures. They compared a bovine-derived isolate (H5N1 Tex/24) against the 2009 pandemic (H1N1 HH4/09) strain and older avian influenza variants.

Unlocking the Coccidian Rupture Mechanism

25 June, 2026

Researchers in France have deciphered the bilayered biomechanical structure of coccidian (Eimeria) oocysts. They discovered that the inner layer bears the mechanical load, while a structurally fixed mechanical weak point, acting as a built-in "exit gate", exists at the anterior pole, enabling parasite release inside the chicken intestine. Coccidiosis, caused by single-celled parasites of the genus Eimeria, represents one of the most significant economic and health challenges in the poultry industry. The parasite spreads through the environment via oocysts protected by a rigid wall. This wall possesses contradictory properties: it must be impermeable enough to survive harsh environmental conditions, yet it must open at the precise moment inside the chicken's digestive tract to release the infectious sporocysts and sporozoites.

Poultry Slaughterhouses in Southern Italy Fueling High Campylobacter Prevalence

25 June, 2026

A team of Italian researchers has uncovered a strikingly high 92.72% prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in poultry slaughterhouses, displaying alarming rates of multi-drug resistance. Campylobacteriosis remains the most frequently reported foodborne gastrointestinal infection in Europe, causing thousands of hospitalizations and significant public health burdens annually. While commercial poultry flocks often carry these curved, Gram-negative bacteria in their digestive tracts asymptomatically, the slaughter and processing stages present a critical vulnerability. Improper hygiene practices during these steps can lead to severe cross-contamination of carcass surfaces, turning raw poultry products into primary vectors for human illness. In a new study, scientists from the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata analyzed 55 processing samples, including cecal contents, neck skins, and carcass wash water, collected from two processing facilities in Southern Italy.

H5N1 in Australia

19 June, 2026

Australia’s status as the final continent free from the devastating H5N1 avian influenza is currently under threat following a local detection.The Subject: A single, sick migratory wild bird. Location: An isolated region in south-west Western Australia.

H5N1 Devastates Elephant Seals on Remote Sub-Antarctic Island

18 June, 2026

Drone and ground surveys conducted by the Australian Antarctic Program have revealed a mass mortality event among southern elephant seals on sub-Antarctic Heard Island, marking a critical and deeply concerning eastward expansion of the virus across the Southern Ocean. Since 2021, HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b has caused unprecedented wildlife mortality on a global scale. After devastating South American coastlines and spreading to South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula, the virus continued its eastward progression across the Indian Ocean basin during late 2024, reaching remote islands including Gough, Marion, Crozet, and Kerguelen. Until recently, mainland Australia and its nearby sub-Antarctic territories had remained free of the panzootic strain. Because these remote islands support exceptionally dense breeding colonies of immunologically naïve marine mammals and seabirds, scientists have long feared that viral introduction could result in rapid and irreversible ecological damage.

Newcastle Disease Outbreak Confirmed in Valladolid

16 June, 2026

Regional veterinary authorities of the Junta de Castile and León have officially confirmed a new outbreak of Newcastle disease. The virus was detected at a broiler facility located in Aldea de San Miguel, within the Valladolid province. According to official reports, the affected flock consisted of unvaccinated broiler chickens.

Bird Flu Detected at Providence Poultry Market

14 June, 2026

An outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza has been confirmed at Antonelli Poultry in Providence (live poultry market), according to a joint statement issued by the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and the Department of Environmental Management (DEM). The virus was detected during a routine quarterly surveillance program conducted by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). Officials noted that the affected birds, consisting of live ducks and chickens, originated from out-of-state suppliers rather than from Rhode Island farms.

South Africa Approves Regulatory Framework for HPAI Vaccination

12 June, 2026

South Africa’s Department of Agriculture has announced the establishment of a comprehensive legal framework permitting the controlled use of vaccines against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). The executive decision, enacted by Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen, follows a rigorous administrative review and a formal objection lodged by the South African Poultry Association (SAPA) under the country's Animal Diseases Act. Under the new regulatory framework, poultry producers will be permitted to use authorized HPAI vaccines, subject to strict government oversight.

Vaccination Markedly Decreases HPAI Outbreak Magnitude and Transmission

12 June, 2026

Since 2020, the global dissemination of Gs/GD-lineage H5Nx viruses belonging to clade 2.3.4.4b has caused unprecedented losses in poultry production worldwide. With more than 200 million domestic birds either dying or being culled across multiple continents between 2020 and 2025, biosecurity measures alone have repeatedly proven insufficient to withstand the persistent infection pressure originating from migratory wild bird populations. Although emergency vaccination strategies have gained increasing international acceptance, regulatory authorities have historically expressed concerns regarding the phenomenon of subclinical viral replication. Conventional vaccines may protect birds from clinical disease and mortality while failing to completely prevent viral shedding, thereby enabling undetected virus circulation within vaccinated populations. Such "silent circulation" can compromise traditional passive surveillance systems. To determine whether modern vaccine platforms can overcome this limitation throughout the entire production cycle, a Dutch research consortium conducted a comprehensive field evaluation.

Campylobacter in Norwegian Broiler Flocks

28 May, 2026

Recent surveillance data indicates the prevalence of Campylobacter colonization among poultry populations in Norway. During the seasonal monitoring period from May to October 2025, the positivity rate among broiler flocks reached approximately 5%.According to the findings, diagnostic screening identified 99 Campylobacter-positive flocks out of a total of 2,014 cohorts tested prior to slaughter, at less than 51 days of age. The comprehensive screening program included sample collection from 492 distinct poultry production facilities across the country.

Non-Typhoidal Salmonella Surveillance in England - 2025

28 May, 2026

A comprehensive epidemiological report published by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveals that laboratory-confirmed cases of non-typhoidal Salmonella in England reached a ten-year high in 2025. In 2025, national laboratory reports of non-typhoidal Salmonella reached 10,406 cases, a marginal 0.17% increase from the 10,389 cases recorded in 2024. The overall reporting rate stood at 17.8 cases per 100,000 population. Consistent with historic baselines, infections demonstrated strong temperature-dependent variations, with significantly higher case volumes occurring between May and October. September marked the absolute seasonal peak for 2025, accounting for 1,424 reported cases.

Widespread S. Enteritidis Outbreak in Belgium Linked to Contaminated Eggs

25 May, 2026

The Belgian Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain is currently investigating a widespread outbreak of salmonellosis. Epidemiological tracing has definitively linked the multi-state cluster to the consumption of contaminated table eggs. To date, public health authorities have confirmed 236 cases of illness. The demographic distribution of the outbreak is remarkably broad, with patients ranging in age from less than one year to 96 years old. Clinical symptoms and positive laboratory confirmations were documented between February 19, 2025, and May 11, 2026, indicating a prolonged exposure period before the source was fully traced.

Avian Flu, the Compensation Phase

25 May, 2026

In a landmark verdict that marks a significant escalation in the legal and financial ramifications of the avian influenza crisis, a Multnomah County jury has awarded $808,000 to a Portland resident after his cat contracted bird flu from contaminated raw pet food and died. The plaintiff, Tim Hanson, filed the lawsuit against Washington-based Wild Coast Pet Foods after his beloved four-year-old Siamese mix, Kira, fell severely ill in late January 2025.

Why Europe’s First Avian Influenza Vaccination Campaign Stalled?

25 May, 2026

Following a massive 2023 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 outbreak across 71 fur farms that exposed over 150 people, Finland became the first country to offer a targeted H5 vaccine to fur and poultry workers in July 2024. Despite securing 20,000 doses for an estimated 10,000 at-risk individuals, the voluntary campaign faced steep resistance. According to the official Finnish vaccination register, between July 2024 and October 2025: - 8.6% of the target population received the first dose. - Only 7.5% completed the full two-dose series.

Avian Influenza: Low Viral Dose Can Infect Dairy Udder

24 May, 2026

A breakthrough study led by Prof. Andrew S. Bowman and his team at The Ohio State University reveals that an incredibly low dose of just 10 infectious particles of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) is sufficient to establish a robust infection in a cow's udder. This finding highlights the extreme susceptibility of bovine mammary tissue while raising critical new questions about how the virus actually spreads on commercial dairy farms. The researchers evaluated several exposure routes in peak-lactation Holstein cows and calves. Infusing individual udder quarters with a remarkably low dose of 10TCID50 successfully established a severe infection.

First Case of HPAI Detected in a Polar Bear on Svalbard (Norway)

20 May, 2026

In a historic and worrying development for Arctic wildlife, scientists have confirmed the first-ever detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a polar bear in Europe. The virus was identified in a one-year-old male polar bear, as well as in a walrus, at the northern end of Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago. The discovery was made following a field investigation initiated in mid-May, after local tourist guides spotted the carcasses of both animals in Raudfjorden. Furthermore, two additional polar bears in the area were observed exhibiting signs of hindlimb lameness. While such neurological symptoms can stem from various causes, they are consistent with conditions previously seen in predators infected with bird flu or rabies.

Italy Launches HPAI Vaccination Pilot

20 May, 2026

In a decisive shift toward proactive disease management, Italy has officially initiated a pilot vaccination program targeting Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). The strategic move, orchestrated by the Directorate-General for Animal Health and Veterinary Medicines of the Italian Ministry of Health, marks a significant departure from traditional "stamping out" policies and aligns with an accelerating European momentum toward HPAI vaccination. The Italian pilot project, technically supported by the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVe), the national reference laboratory for avian influenza, is deployed in high-risk, poultry-dense areas within the Veneto and Lombardy regions.

G57 H9N2: An Aggressive Lineage

17 May, 2026

Scientists at the Pirbright Institute have discovered that G57 H9N2 influenza viruses replicate more efficiently and disseminate systemically in chickens than the G1-B lineage, significantly increasing risks to both the poultry industry and public health. Although often classified as a "low-pathogenicity" virus, H9N2 avian influenza virus (AIV) imposes a substantial global burden, causing major economic losses through respiratory disease, secondary bacterial infections, and reduced egg production. Two major genetic lineages currently predominate worldwide: the G1 lineage (genotype G1-B), common in the Middle East and Africa, and the BJ/94 lineage (genotype G57), which has become the dominant form in China and Vietnam.

The Netherlands to Mandate Avian Influenza Vaccination for Laying Hens

16 May, 2026

The Dutch Cabinet is advancing a strategic plan to implement mandatory vaccination for laying hens to structurally combat avian influenza. This decision follows a severe period for the poultry sector, which has seen 51 infected locations and the culling of over 2.25 million birds since October 2025. The policy shift is supported by promising results from field trials conducted by Wageningen Bioveterinary Research (WBVR).

Avian Influenza H5N1: Rare Neurological Case in Child

16 May, 2026

Researchers identified a novel H5N1 clade 2.3.2.1e causing isolated brain infection in a child. Historically, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) has been characterized by severe respiratory failure in humans. While neurological complications have been documented, they almost always follow standard respiratory symptoms. However, in mid-April 2025, an eight-year-old boy from Vietnam’s Tay Ninh province was hospitalized with a 24-hour history of fever, severe headache, and vomiting. Despite a chest radiograph showing some lung consolidation, the patient exhibited no cough, no shortness of breath, and maintained normal oxygen saturation. The initial diagnosis was sepsis and meningoencephalitis.

Avian Influenza H9N2 in Peru

14 May, 2026

A new study reports the first-ever H9N2 outbreak in Darwin’s rhea in the Peruvian Andes. Avian influenza viruses of the H9N2 subtype typically cause only mild disease. However, scientists recognize this strain as a major “gene donor,” frequently exchanging genetic segments with highly pathogenic viruses such as H5N1 and H7N9, thereby facilitating the emergence of novel genotypes with pandemic potential. Although evidence of H9N2 circulation in South America has previously been limited, this outbreak in Peru suggests a significant shift in the regional ecology of the virus. Between June and July 2025, a severe outbreak struck a remote conservation center in Puno, Peru, located more than 4,000 meters above sea level. The outbreak affected the “Suri” (Rhea pennata), a large flightless bird species classified as critically endangered by the Peruvian government.

Fatal Human Case of H5N6 in China

ECDC

14 May, 2026

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed a fatal human case of avian influenza A(H5N6) in Chongqing Municipality, China. The patient, a female in her fifties, contracted the virus following direct exposure to live poultry. Investigation into the source of infection revealed that the woman had purchased, slaughtered, and consumed live poultry prior to falling ill. Environmental samples collected from the cutting board used to prepare the food tested positive for the A(H5) virus.

The Expanding Host Range of H5Nx

11 May, 2026

In 2024 and 2025, the livestock sector was shaken by extensive H5N1 outbreaks in U.S. dairy cattle, particularly involving the B3.13 and D1.1 genotypes. While cattle have been the focus of recent surveillance, a new study published in Science Advances warns that small ruminants like sheep may be just as vulnerable, and could play a unique role in the virus's ecology. To understand how these viruses behave in small ruminants, the research team, led by Dr. Yohannes Berhane, inoculated sheep with two distinct genotypes: D1.1 (H5N1) and A6 (H5N5).

Environmental Persistence Triggers H5N1 Re-emergence in French Poultry

11 May, 2026

During the 2022–2023 epizootic season, France experienced a peculiar "biphasic" epidemic in its southwestern poultry-dense regions. After an initial wave of 11 outbreaks ended in January 2023, the region saw 99 consecutive days without a single detection. However, the virus suddenly returned in May 2023, leading to 88 additional outbreaks. Remarkably, the first cases of this second wave appeared just two days after authorities lifted the national requirement to shelter poultry, raising urgent questions: was this a new introduction from migratory birds, or had the virus been "hiding" on the farms?

Chile: Avian Influenza Update

11 May, 2026

As of May 2026, Chile is grappling with a significant resurgence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). This latest wave is characterized by an extensive geographic spread toward the southern regions of the country and, notably, the first incursions into commercial production facilities in recent times.

Belgium: FASFC Scientific Committee Outlines Crucial Revisions to Salmonella Control Protocols

08 May, 2026

The Scientific Committee of the Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FASFC) has released a comprehensive opinion regarding proposed amendments to the Belgian regulatory framework for Salmonella control. These updates aim to refine the Royal Decree of September 21, 2020, which established the foundational requirements for the surveillance and management of zoonotic Salmonella in poultry flocks.

New Evidence Suggests First Possible Cat-to-Human H5N1 Transmission

07 May, 2026

CDC researchers identified serologic evidence of H5N1 infection in an asymptomatic veterinary professional following exposure to an infected domestic cat. This discovery marks the first documented instance of possible zoonotic transmission of the virus from a feline to a human. Since 2021, the highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b has decimated wild bird and poultry populations across the United States. Recently, the virus has increasingly spilled over into mammals, including dairy cattle and domestic cats. In felines, the disease is often severe, frequently linked to the consumption of unpasteurized raw milk or raw meat. While human cases have occurred, they were previously tied to direct bird or cattle exposure; cat-to-human transmission remained undocumented until now.

First Global Fatal Human Case of H5N5 Avian Flu

07 May, 2026

In a historic medical finding, researchers confirmed the first human case of fatal highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N5) worldwide. The Washington resident, a backyard flock owner, died following a complex diagnostic course involving multiple false-negative tests. The patient, an individual aged 65 with a history of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, developed symptoms in late October 2025 including fever, cough, and diarrhea. For the first 14 days of illness, multiple upper respiratory (nares) swabs tested negative for influenza A.

New Study Uncovers Hidden H5N1 Transmission Routes on California Dairy Farms

06 May, 2026

Researchers led by Emory and Colorado State University discovered that H5N1 influenza spreads through air and wastewater on dairy farms. These findings reveal critical new risks for cows and workers beyond contaminated milking equipment. Since highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 first emerged in U.S. dairy cattle in March 2024, the scientific consensus has largely focused on contaminated milking equipment as the primary driver of transmission. Because the virus is found in extremely high concentrations in raw milk, researchers believed direct contact was the main culprit. However, the exact mechanisms of how the virus moves between animals, and to the humans who care for them, remained alarmingly unclear.

Expanding Salmonella Control in Turkeys Could Slash Human Illness by Over 80%

06 May, 2026

A comprehensive study by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) reveals that expanding flock reduction targets to include all significant Salmonella strains, rather than just the two most common, could reduce human infections linked to turkey meat by a staggering 83%.

The Emergence and Rapid Expansion of the D1.1 H5N1 Avian Influenza Genotype in North America

05 May, 2026

A recent preprint published on the bioRxiv server has unveiled a major evolutionary shift in the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 epizootic in North America. The comprehensive genomic analysis of over 21,000 H5N1 sequences reveals that while early strains in the Americas originated from Europe, a new reassortant genotype known as "D1.1" emerged from an Asian lineage in mid-2024 and has since dominated the region. This latest genomic analysis complements previous research recently published in Nature Medicine, which first tracked the rapid genotypic sweep of D1.1 across North American migratory flyways during the autumn 2024 season.

Accelerated H5N1 Transmission Across Poland’s Poultry Sector

05 May, 2026

As of May 5, 2026, Poland is experiencing a significant and accelerating intensification of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). The current epidemic, driven by the H5N1 strain, has demonstrated a rapid escalation in both the frequency and the magnitude of outbreaks within commercial operations. The scope of the 2026 avian influenza season has reached critical levels.

Australia Launches National Campylobacter Action Plan (2025–2028)

04 May, 2026

Regulatory authorities in Australia, led by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), have officially launched a comprehensive five-year strategic plan to address the significant public health burden of Campylobacter. This initiative, a cornerstone of the national food safety policy for the coming years, aims to reduce the incidence of human campylobacteriosis through science-based interventions across the entire supply chain.

Moving Beyond Culling: The Global Push for HPAI Poultry Vaccination

03 May, 2026

The sustained global spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus has prompted an urgent reevaluation of current disease control strategies. With the virus deeply entrenched in wild bird populations and occasionally spilling over into mammalian species, the traditional reliance on large-scale poultry culling is increasingly viewed as an unsustainable approach. Scientific consensus indicates that integrating widespread vaccination is a necessary, long-term tool to safeguard animal welfare, secure food supplies, and mitigate broader public health risks. Despite the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) officially recognizing vaccination as a complementary control measure, and clarifying that its use does not jeopardize a nation’s HPAI-free status under proper surveillance, global implementation remains severely limited. Many exporting nations are deterred by the financial burdens of extensive monitoring and, most notably, the persistent threat of disproportionate international trade barriers.

H5N1 Avian Influenza Outbreak in Poultry and Cats in Germany

01 May, 2026

In February 2026, a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) outbreak was identified in a small, remote poultry holding in the Sigmaringen district of Germany. The event involved approximately 21 chickens and nine free-roaming domestic cats. The outbreak was first detected during a veterinary inspection triggered by animal welfare concerns, which revealed sudden deaths among both bird and feline populations. Laboratory testing confirmed HPAI A(H5N1) infection in four dead chickens and multiple cats that presented with severe neurological, respiratory, and general symptoms. All surviving cats on the premises were found to be seropositive for H5-specific antibodies, indicating a widespread infection across the feline group.

Mass Mortality in Eurasian Cranes – 2025

29 April, 2026

A recent study published in Emerging Infectious Diseases details a devastating mass mortality event among Eurasian cranes (Grus grus) during the autumn of 2025. The outbreak, caused by the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) virus, represents a significant blow to the Western European migrating subpopulation, with an estimated 10% of the flyway population perishing within months.

Campylobacter in Sweden: Comparative Analysis and Seasonal Trends

17 April, 2026

Sweden is globally recognized for its industry-leading standards in minimizing Campylobacter prevalence throughout the production chain. This achievement reflects more than three decades of systematic intervention. The effort began in 1993 as a research initiative led by Svensk Fågel (the Swedish Poultry Trade Association) to reduce bacterial incidence in domestic flocks. In 2001, the program was expanded into a comprehensive national surveillance initiative. For four years, it operated as a joint EU-funded project involving the Swedish Board of Agriculture, the National Food Agency, the Swedish Veterinary Institute (SVA), the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), and the Institute for Communicable Disease Control. Since 2005, following the conclusion of EU funding, the program has been led by Svensk Fågel. It remains a model of collaboration between industry, academia, and government authorities.

New Dominant H5N1 Genotype Sweeps Across North America During 2024 Migration

Nature Medicine | 2026

17 April, 2026

A recent study published in Nature Medicine reveals the emergence and rapid expansion of a new highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) reassortant, designated as genotype D1.1, which became the predominant strain in North American wild birds during the autumn 2024 migratory season. First detected in September 2024, the D1.1 genotype spread with remarkable speed across multiple migratory flyways, nearly replacing previously circulating H5 genotypes by December 2024. This rapid genotypic sweep coincided with several significant spillover events, including detections in dairy cattle and 17 reported human cases, four of which were severe and two fatal.

Newcastle Disease Outbreak in Spain: Winter 2025-26 Epidemiological Update

15 April, 2026

Spanish veterinary authorities have confirmed a series of Newcastle Disease (ND) outbreaks affecting poultry farms in the Valencia province throughout the winter season of 2025-26. The epidemiological surge began on December 29, 2025, when the virus was first detected in a broiler flock of 15,000 birds in the municipality of Llutxent. Subsequent laboratory analysis conducted by the National Reference Laboratory in Algete identified the pathogen as a highly virulent velogenic strain, specifically categorized as Genotype VII (sub-genotype VII.1.1).

H5N1 Avian Influenza RNA Detected in Bovine Semen

Emerging Infectious Diseases • Vol. 32, Number 5 - May 2026

15 April, 2026

A new diagnostic study has identified the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) virus RNA in the semen of an asymptomatic dairy bull, marking a potential shift in how researchers understand the virus's spread within the cattle industry. Since March 2024, the clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 virus has been circulating among dairy cattle in the United States. In October 2024, an outbreak occurred at a 4,500-head Holstein dairy farm in California, where infection was initially confirmed through bulk tank milk samples. While lactating cows on the farm exhibited symptoms such as decreased milk production, mastitis, and fever, the bulls remained asymptomatic.

Cross-Reactive Immunity to Avian H5N1 in Seasonally Exposed Individuals

www.thelancet.com/microbe | 2026

14 April, 2026

Highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5) viruses, particularly those belonging to clade 2.3.4.4b, represent a persistent and evolving pandemic threat as they continue to spread globally among birds and spill over into mammalian populations. A critical question for pandemic preparedness is whether human populations possess any degree of pre-existing immunity to these viruses. A new observational study conducted in the Netherlands and published in The Lancet Microbe provides a comprehensive map of baseline immunity, suggesting that previous exposure to seasonal influenza has equipped many humans with a significant, albeit partial, immune defense against these avian strains.

AviGate: Salmonella Infantis Live Vaccine

12 April, 2026

The European Medicines Agency’s (EMA) Committee for Veterinary Medicinal Products (CVMP) has issued a positive recommendation for the marketing authorization of AviGate S. Infantis. Developed by Huvepharma, this live attenuated vaccine represents the first targeted immunological tool specifically designed to address the growing challenge of Salmonella Infantis in poultry production.On March 12, 2026, the CVMP adopted a favorable opinion for AviGate S. Infantis, marking a pivotal moment for food safety and poultry health management. Salmonella Infantis has become increasingly prevalent across global poultry chains, often characterized by its persistence in the farm environment and high levels of multi-drug resistance (MDR).AviGate S. Infantis is a live, attenuated lyophilisate vaccine based on the J-6-24 ∆cpxRA ∆lon1 strain of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica, serovar Infantis.

The Urgent Case for Vaccinating U.S. Dairy Cattle Against H5N1

The Journal of Infectious Diseases | 2026

11 April, 2026

In a new perspective published in The Journal of Infectious Diseases , infectious disease expert Dr. Gregory Gray highlights the vaccination of dairy herds as one of the most vital steps the United States can take to curb the H5N1 epizootic. Gray contends that because dairy cattle have become an evolutionary "training ground" for mammalian adaptation, proactive vaccination is essential to reduce pandemic risk. Gray and his colleagues argue that after four years of "failed aggressive livestock biosecurity interventions," the H5N1 epizootic continues to rage across the United States. Since 2024, the virus has spread to more than 1,086 dairy herds across 19 states. This ongoing outbreak has resulted in the culling of over 190 million poultry and has imposed a massive economic burden, estimated at $14.3 billion, or 0.06% of the U.S. real GDP.

Campylobacter Outbreak Linked to Duck Liver Pâté in Australia

Communicable Diseases Intelligence | 2026

08 April, 2026

A recent report published in Communicable Diseases Intelligence details a foodborne outbreak of Campylobacter jejuni gastroenteritis associated with a restaurant in Australia's Hunter New England district in July 2025. The investigation was launched following reports of illness in a two-year-old child and their grandmother, both of whom had attended a family event at the establishment. Out of 26 attendees at the family event, seven cases were identified, including five laboratory-confirmed and two probable cases. Epidemiological analysis identified the pâté de canard (duck liver pâté) as the most likely source of infection. The pâté showed the strongest association with the illness, with an attack rate of 46.7% among those who consumed it.

Adapted Bovine H5N1 Efficiently Utilizes Cattle Receptors

Hassard et al., (2026) | bioRxiv

06 April, 2026

Sialic acid is a collective term for a family of sugar molecules characterized by a nine-carbon backbone. In biological systems, these molecules are located at the terminal ends of complex carbohydrate chains, known as glycans, which are attached to proteins or lipids on the cell surface. These glycans function as the cell’s “external address”; positioned at the outermost interface, they are the primary structures encountered by viruses, bacteria, and other cells. Most Influenza A viruses use sialic acid as a primary receptor, serving as the main docking site for host cell entry. The specific and dynamic presentation of sialic acids varies among species and plays a central role in determining host range and viral tropism.

HPAI in Argentina: Industry Leaders Urge a Strategic Shift Toward Vaccination

06 April, 2026

Argentina’s poultry sector is at a critical juncture as the 2026 wave of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 continues to challenge existing containment strategies. Following the loss of its “HPAI-free” status earlier this year, the country is now grappling with a marked increase in commercial outbreaks, prompting a nationwide debate over the adoption of emergency vaccination protocols. As of April 2026, the National Health and Food Quality Service (SENASA) has confirmed 21 outbreaks nationwide. The most affected regions include the provinces of Buenos Aires (particularly near Ranchos and Lobos), Córdoba, and Río Negro. The virus was reintroduced into commercial production systems in February 2026, leading to the immediate suspension of fresh poultry exports in compliance with World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) standards.

Japan’s 2025-2026 HPAI Season

04 April, 2026

Japan’s poultry sector remains on high alert as the 2025–2026 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) season continues to unfold. According to the latest data from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), the country has verified 23 distinct outbreaks in commercial poultry operations as of the conclusion of March 2026. The geographical distribution of the virus has recently shifted toward the northern prefectures, aligning with the "second wave" of migratory bird movements typical for the Japanese spring.

Taiwan: First Case of H7 Avian Influenza in Human

02 April, 2026

The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced on April 2, 2026, the detection of the nation’s first indigenous human case of H7 subtype avian influenza. The patient, a male in his 70s residing in central Taiwan, is a poultry farmer with a history of chronic medical conditions. According to official reports, the patient began experiencing respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose, cough, and myalgia, on March 20. Following the onset of a fever on March 22, he was hospitalized and diagnosed with pneumonia. Subsequent genetic sequencing confirmed the presence of an H7 influenza A virus belonging to the Eurasian lineage. Notably, this strain is distinct from the H7N9 virus that caused significant outbreaks in mainland China between 2013 and 2019; instead, it closely matches low-pathogenic avian influenza viruses previously monitored in Taiwan’s wild bird populations.

H5N1 Evolution and Dispersal Threaten Polar Wildlife

bioRxiv | March 21, 2026

28 March, 2026

The frozen isolation of the sub-Antarctic and Antarctica has been breached by a formidable adversary. A comprehensive study of the High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus reveals that the pathogen has not only established a foothold in these remote ecosystems but is actively evolving and persisting across vast distances. Researchers analyzed 104 novel viral genomic sequences collected across an 8,000-kilometer range, including the Antarctic Peninsula and several sub-Antarctic archipelagos.

Chile: A Major H5N1 Outbreak in Commercial Layer Farm

27 March, 2026

The Chilean Ministry of Agriculture has announced an immediate suspension of all poultry product exports following the detection of the first commercial case of High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (H5N1) in 2026. On March 25, 2026, the virus was identified at a large-scale table-egg layer farm located in El Monte, near the capital city of Santiago. This detection follows a series of outbreaks reported in wild birds and backyard flocks since early March.

First Human Case of Avian Influenza A(H9N2) Detected in the EU

25 March, 2026

Public health authorities in Italy have reported the first-ever human infection of avian influenza A(H9N2) within the European Union. The case, identified in the Lombardy region, involves a traveler returning from a non-European country where the virus is known to circulate in avian populations.

Rising Antibiotic Resistance in UK Campylobacter Infections

Colles, F., et al. (2026). Food Standards Agency Research Project.

17 March, 2026

A comprehensive genomic study commissioned by the Food Standards Agency has highlighted a concerning rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among Campylobacter, the leading cause of bacterial food poisoning in the UK. Analyzing over 4,000 isolates from human clinical cases and agri-food sources between 2019 and 2024, researchers utilized whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and machine learning to map transmission routes and resistance trends. Using advanced AI modeling, the study estimated that more than 80% of human Campylobacter infections in the UK are derived from poultry. Ruminants (cattle and sheep) were identified as the second-largest source.

Newcastle Disease Virus Spreads Across Europe

17 March, 2026

European veterinary authorities are mobilizing to contain a significant wave of Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) outbreaks, with the current epicenter identified in Poland. Since the beginning of the year, Polish officials have confirmed 28 distinct outbreak sites. The scale of recent events is particularly severe; following the detection of the virus at two major commercial broiler farms, authorities were compelled to cull over 500,000 birds. A critical concern emerging from diagnostic reports is the manifestation of the disease in flocks that had reportedly undergone full vaccination protocols. Serological testing conducted on broiler farms in Poland revealed antibody titers significantly below the threshold required for clinical protection.

The Genetic "Trap" Behind the Emergence of HPAI

Science 12 March 2026

13 March, 2026

A team of researchers has finally cracked a decades-old mystery in virology: how low-pathogenic avian influenza viruses transform into highly pathogenic strains. The study, published in Science, identifies a mechanical "trap" within the virus's own replication machinery as the culprit. For years, we know that the hallmark of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is a specific change in the hemagglutinin (HA) gene. This change involves the insertion of a multibasic cleavage site (MBCS), which allows the virus to spread systemically throughout a bird's body rather than remaining confined to the respiratory or gastrointestinal tracts. But how the virus physically gains these extra genetic "links"?

HPAI Persists Across All U.S. Flyways

USGS

12 March, 2026

The ongoing H5N1 outbreak continues to impact a wide range of wild bird species, prompting heightened surveillance and biosafety measures across North America. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) National Wildlife Health Center (NWHC) reports that Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 remains a significant threat to wildlife, with detections confirmed in all four major U.S. flyways. Since its emergence in late 2021, this particular strain has exhibited unusual persistence, affecting not only waterfowl but also raptors, colonial nesting seabirds, and several mammalian species.

Decrease in Avian Influenza Detections in Europe

12 March, 2026

According to a joint scientific report by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), and the EU Reference Laboratory (EURL), there has been a steady decline in the number of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) detections across Europe following a sharp peak at the beginning of the December 2025 to February 2026 reporting period. During this timeframe, a total of 2,514 HPAI A(H5) virus detections were reported in 32 countries, with the majority occurring in wild birds (2,108) and 406 detections in domestic poultry and captive birds. Notably, over 90% of the outbreaks in poultry were attributed to primary introductions from wild birds rather than farm-to-farm spread, suggesting that current biosecurity and vaccination strategies in certain regions, such as France, have been effective in limiting secondary transmission.

Salmonella in the Netherlands: The Role of Contaminated Eggshells

www.eurosurveillance.org | 05 Mar 2026

10 March, 2026

A large-scale, prolonged outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) in the Netherlands has highlighted a critical vulnerability in the food production chain: the use of inadequately processed eggshells in animal feed. Between June 2023 and September 2025, health authorities identified 227 outbreak cases through national genomic surveillance. The investigation, utilizing Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and a case-control study, revealed that the outbreak consisted of two genetically related but distinct subclusters with different epidemiological profiles.

The Critical Role of Water Quality in Poultry Vaccination

Poultry 2026, 5, 17

06 March, 2026

A recent study published in the journal Poultry highlights the significant impact of drinking water quality on the stability and effectiveness of live attenuated Salmonella vaccines used in the poultry industry. Because zoonotic Salmonella remains a leading cause of global foodborne disease, the industry relies heavily on live vaccines to reduce pathogen colonization in flocks. Researchers found that several chemical and physicochemical parameters in farm water can substantially compromise vaccine stability. The study examined a range of dissolved ions and metals commonly present in agricultural water sources.

New avian influenza vaccine trials begin in UK

05 March, 2026

In a significant move to combat the devastating impact of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), the UK Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has announced the commencement of targeted vaccine trials. Starting Thursday, March 5, these trials represent a critical step in evaluating the efficacy of modern vaccines within a field setting. The current research focuses exclusively on turkeys in England. This species was prioritized due to its extreme susceptibility to the virus; HPAI outbreaks in turkeys typically result in severe clinical symptoms and rapid, high mortality rates. Beyond the ecological toll on wild and captive birds, the disease carries a heavy economic burden, costing the UK government and the poultry industry up to £174 million annually.

Extensive Study Identifies Key Risk Factors for Salmonella in Israeli Layer Flocks

05 March, 2026

A comprehensive study published in Poultry Science has shed new light on the prevalence and environmental drivers of Salmonella infections within Israel's egg-laying sector. Analyzing data from over 24,500 sampling events between 2018 and 2023, researchers identified critical management and environmental factors that significantly influence the risk of contamination. The study revealed a substantial presence of Salmonella in the Israeli poultry industry (commercial layers), with rates notably higher than those reported in the US and European Union.

MGEs Drive Multidrug Resistance in Salmonella Infantis in U.S. Poultry

04 March, 2026

Salmonella Infantis has emerged as a significant public health threat, ranking among the top serovars linked to foodborne outbreaks in the United States. Recently designated as a "recurring, emerging, and persistent" (REP) strain by the CDC, this pathogen is notorious for its rapid global spread and increasing resistance to critical antibiotics. A new study published in BMC Genomics analyzed nine S. Infantis strains isolated from the U.S. poultry production line in 2022, including chicken carcass and comminuted meat samples. Using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and phenotypic testing, they uncovered several alarming trends: Most isolates were phenotypically resistant to five or more antibiotics, with some strains showing resistance to as many as 16 different antimicrobials.

France: New Salmonella Protocol for Laying Hens

04 March, 2026

In an effort to strengthen public health protection and modernize poultry production standards, the French Ministry of Agriculture has introduced a revised protocol for the management of Salmonella in laying hen flocks. The updated framework, developed in collaboration with scientific authorities (Anses) and industry representatives (CNPO), places greater emphasis on preventive vaccination rather than strict regulatory enforcement. Although vaccination remains voluntary, the Ministry is implementing a differentiated testing regime designed to encourage uptake. Producers who fully vaccinate their laying hen flocks against S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium will benefit from a simplified monitoring scheme based exclusively on faecal sampling, thereby eliminating the requirement for more complex environmental swabbing. By contrast, non-vaccinated flocks will continue to be subject to enhanced surveillance, including both faecal and environmental sampling.

OFFLU: Global Spread and Impact of H5 Clade 2.3.4.4b in Wildlife (2020–2024)

04 March, 2026

A comprehensive international report has documented the ongoing and expanding panzootic of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5 clade 2.3.4.4b affecting a wide range of wild bird and mammal species across multiple continents between October 2020 and September 2024. The virus, a member of the Goose/Guangdong lineage, has demonstrated unprecedented geographic expansion and an increasingly broad host range since acquiring enhanced transmission efficiency among wild birds during 2020–2021. Outbreaks have frequently been associated with high mortality rates, posing additional conservation threats to vulnerable wildlife populations already facing numerous environmental pressures. During the reporting period, the virus was detected across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.

Bird flu killing elephant seals in California

26 February, 2026

In a concerning development for marine conservation, California State Parks and researchers from the University of California, Davis, and UC Santa Cruz have confirmed the state’s first known cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in marine mammals. Seven weaned northern elephant seal pups (Mirounga angustirostris) at Año Nuevo State Park have tested positive for the virus, marking a significant milestone in the pathogen's trans-species spread along the Pacific Coast. Researchers at the UC Santa Cruz northern elephant seal research program first observed abnormal clinical signs, including tremors, respiratory distress, and physical weakness among the colony on February 19 and 20. At least 30 elephant seals have died during this event so far. This count primarily includes weaned pups, but also at least one adult male.

Widespread H5N1 in US Dairy

26 February, 2026

A new study published in Emerging Infectious Diseases highlights the critical role of retail milk monitoring in tracking the unprecedented outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) in US dairy cattle. The research suggests that while the virus spread extensively and silently in early 2024, subsequent federal interventions have significantly improved detection and control. When H5N1 was first reported in dairy cows in March 2024, initial identification was delayed because cows were not considered typical hosts for the virus. Early surveillance relied on "passive" reporting, testing only clinically ill animals, which led to a massive underestimation of the virus's reach.

Argentina: New HPAI H5 Outbreak in Commercial Sector

25 February, 2026

Argentina’s National Health and Agrifood Quality Service (SENASA) confirmed a new outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) subtype H5 in a commercial poultry facility on February 23, 2026. The detection has triggered an immediate, voluntary suspension of poultry product exports to international markets. The outbreak was identified in a heavy breeder flock located in Ranchos, Buenos Aires Province, approximately 120 kilometers southwest of the capital. All birds in the infected flock are being culled.

Germany Reports First Commercial Newcastle Disease Case in 18 Years

24 February, 2026

German veterinary authorities have confirmed an outbreak of Newcastle Disease (ND) in a turkey flock, marking the country’s first occurrence in a commercial farming operation in nearly two decades. The case was officially confirmed on February 20, 2026, at a facility in Neißemünde, located in the state of Brandenburg. The affected flock comprised approximately 18,000 turkeys, with officials reporting an initial mortality rate of 1,000 birds.

EU Signals End to Mass Culling Policy

24 February, 2026

The European Commission is signaling a historic strategic pivot in its management of livestock health crises. Moving away from decades of "stamping out" policies, which relied on the mass culling of infected and at-risk herds/flocks, the Commission is now prioritizing preventative vaccination and trade diplomacy to safeguard the future of Europe’s farming sector. The shift is being spearheaded by the Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, Olivér Várhelyi, who recently issued a stark warning regarding the sustainability of current protocols. Várhelyi argued that the systematic slaughter of millions of animals, many of which are healthy but within a designated risk zone, is no longer economically, socially, or ethically viable.

Study Reveals Neuroinvasion and Cat-to-Cat Transmission of H5N1

bioRxiv preprint | February 22, 2026

23 February, 2026

The spillover of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A H5N1 to mammalian hosts has raised significant concerns regarding its pandemic potential. Domestic cats are frequently affected by these spillovers, often succumbing to severe systemic and neurological diseases. A new study provides critical insights into how the virus attacks the feline nervous system and highlights alarming differences in transmissibility between recent viral strains. The research outlines the aggressive progression of the H5N1 virus within the cat host. The virus initially replicates in the upper respiratory tract before entering the bloodstream to establish severe viremia. From the blood, it rapidly disseminates to multiple organ systems, including the lungs, liver, and lymphoid tissues, causing widespread cellular damage.

Receptor Binding Specificity of Feline H5N1 Isolates in South Korea

23 February, 2026

A recent study published in the journal Virulence has investigated the zoonotic potential of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 viruses following fatal cluster infections in felines in South Korea during July 2023. The research aimed to determine if these viruses had acquired the ability to infect humans more efficiently after jumping from birds to mammals. The research team compared two feline-derived H5N1 strains (Feline/GA/2023 and Feline/YS/2023) with a genetically related avian strain (Duck/YC/2022) and a human pandemic H1N1 (pdm09) reference control.

Israel Reports Second H5N1 Bird Flu Outbreak of 2026

22 February, 2026

The Israeli Veterinary Services (IVS) have officially reported the second outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) in 2026. The outbreak was detected in northern Israel, in Nahalal, and involves a flock of 8,000 19-week-old turkeys. This farm has experienced recurrent infections, with previous outbreaks documented in 2017, 2024, and 2025. Its heightened vulnerability is attributed to its proximity to multiple water reservoirs.

New Strategy Regarding Egg Safety in South Korea

21 February, 2026

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has recently introduced several new strategies and regulatory updates, extending into 2025 and 2026, aimed at strengthening egg traceability and preventing contamination. The MFDS has announced a strategic shift toward managing egg safety further upstream. Rather than relying primarily on post-production grading and retail-level testing, the government is redirecting its safety protocols, inspections, and contamination control measures to laying hen farms in order to detect and mitigate risks at the source.

China: New Human Case of Avian Influenza A(H10N3)

20 February, 2026

Global health authorities are monitoring a newly reported human infection with avian influenza A(H10N3), following an update issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) on February 20, 2026. The case involves a 34-year-old man from Guangdong Province, China. According to medical reports, symptom onset occurred on December 29, 2025, and the patient was subsequently hospitalized. The latest WHO update indicates that he is currently in stable condition. Preliminary investigations suggest prior exposure to live poultry before the onset of illness.

Significant Escalation of Avian Influenza Outbreaks in Pennsylvania, USA

20 February, 2026

Since the beginning of 2026, the state of Pennsylvania has been confronting one of the most severe waves of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in its history. The first two months of the year have been marked by a dramatic increase in morbidity and associated depopulation. From January through mid-February, more than 7.1 million birds have been culled statewide.

Scientific Review Confirms: 35-Day Shelf Life for Norwegian Eggs is Safe and Justified

07 February, 2026

A recent assessment by the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment (VKM) concludes that the scientific basis for the EU’s 28-day shelf-life limit does not apply to Norway, primarily due to the near-absence of Salmonella Enteritidis and strict cold chain requirements. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) currently mandates a maximum shelf life of 28 days for table eggs across the EU/EEA. This limit is heavily based on risk models focused on Salmonella Enteritidis, assuming significant vertical transmission (from infected hens to the egg interior). However, a comprehensive study by VKM, requested by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (NFSA), finds that these assumptions do not align with Norwegian production conditions.

High Mortality Among Antarctic Skuas

Scientific Reports | (2026) 16:4604

06 February, 2026

A recent study published in Scientific Reports provides the first unequivocal diagnosis of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 as a major cause of mortality in Antarctic wildlife. While the virus's presence in the region had been suspected, the HPAI Australis Expedition in March 2024 confirmed that the panzootic has firmly reached the frozen continent, with devastating effects on specific bird populations.

Broad-Spectrum Protection Against Infectious Bronchitis

06 February, 2026

Avian Infectious Bronchitis (IB) remains one of the most significant challenges for the global poultry industry, leading to substantial economic losses through respiratory disease, kidney damage, and decreased egg production. Because the Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) exhibits high genetic diversity and a tendency for mutation, traditional monovalent vaccines often fail to provide adequate cross-protection against emerging variants. A recent study published in the journal Vaccines evaluates a novel solution: A multi-valent inactivated vaccine designed to provide broad-spectrum protection. Researchers investigated the efficacy of a new vaccine, which contains two globally prevalent IBV strains, M41 (genotype GI-1) and 4-91 (genotype GI-13), alongside antigens for seven other poultry pathogens. The study examined the vaccine's performance in both specific pathogen-free (SPF) chickens and commercial layers and breeders under field conditions.

Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease in Poland: 2026 Status Update

05 February, 2026

According to official data released by Polish authorities, the country has been grappling with significant outbreaks of both Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease (ND) since the onset of 2026. Since the beginning of the year, 26 outbreaks of Avian Influenza have been confirmed in broiler and breeding flocks across Poland. The impact has been felt across a broad spectrum of the poultry sector, with confirmed cases in chicken breeding farms, as well as duck and turkey fattening operations.

Czechia Reports Highest Salmonellosis Rates in Europe

Eurosurveillance

25 January, 2026

A newly published study covering the period 2012–2023 indicates that Czechia maintains the highest notification rate of human salmonellosis in Europe, consistently exceeding the EU average by approximately fivefold. Although the overall trend shows a decline in reported cases, the analysis underscores the central role of the poultry supply chain, particularly eggs and chicken meat, as the primary vehicles of infection.

First Detection of Avian Influenza Antibodies in European Dairy Cattle

24 January, 2026

Authorities in the Netherlands have confirmed the presence of avian influenza (H5N1) antibodies in a dairy cow in the municipality of Noardeast-Fryslân. This represents the first known instance of a dairy cow in Europe testing positive for antibodies to the virus, following widespread outbreaks in the United States throughout 2024 and 2025. The investigation was triggered following a report to the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) on December 24, 2025, regarding two sick cats. One of the cats tested positive for avian influenza and subsequently died. Contact tracing revealed that the deceased feline originated from a dairy farm, prompting a thorough screening of the resident livestock. Initial screenings conducted on January 15 revealed that while no active virus was detectable via PCR testing in the individual milk samples or the bulk tank, one cow tested positive for H5N1 antibodies.

Bovine-Derived H5N1 Virus Demonstrates High Replication Efficiency in Human Nasal Epithelial Cells

bioRxiv preprint January 17, 2026

19 January, 2026

In recent years, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses of the H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b have spread globally, resulting in unprecedented mortality rates among wild birds and poultry. Beyond its devastating impact on avian populations, the virus has increasingly crossed the species barrier to infect various mammals. In early 2024, a significant spillover event was documented for the first time in U.S. dairy cattle. While human infections associated with this outbreak have remained limited and clinically mild thus far, significant concerns have arisen regarding the virus's potential to adapt for efficient replication within the human upper respiratory tract.

Recombinant H5N1 Avian Influenza Vaccine for Cats

npj Vaccines (2026)

14 January, 2026

A study recently published in the scientific journal npj Vaccines demonstrates that a recombinant H5 protein-based vaccine effectively prevents severe morbidity and mortality in cats exposed to the H5N1 avian influenza virus, while significantly reducing viral shedding into the environment. In recent years, the H5N1 avian influenza virus (Clade 2.3.4.4b) has emerged as a significant global threat, affecting not only avian species but also a wide range of mammals. Domestic cats are particularly vulnerable due to their high susceptibility to the virus and the increased likelihood of contact with infection sources. Recent outbreaks in the United States have linked feline infections to the consumption of unpasteurized milk from infected dairy farms or contact with diseased wild birds. In felines, the disease typically manifests in a severe form characterized by exceptionally high mortality rates.

Two Human H5N1 Cases Detected via Expanded Subtyping

ASM Case Reports | Jan 2026

10 January, 2026

A new study published in ASM Case Reports describes an expanded surveillance protocol for highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) in humans. The report details the detection of two H5 RNA-positive individuals in Alameda County, California, neither of whom had documented exposure to infected animals. These findings highlight the limitations of current exposure-based testing strategies in the United States. Between August 2024 and April 2025, researchers implemented universal H5 subtyping on 4,488 influenza A-positive respiratory samples collected within their hospital system, irrespective of patient exposure history. This expanded screening yielded an H5 positivity rate of 0.04%.

Poland: EU Audit Reveals Persistent Gaps in Poultry Salmonella Monitoring

06 January, 2026

A recent follow-up audit conducted by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (Report 2024-8029) has highlighted significant and ongoing failures in the monitoring and control of Salmonella within Poland's poultry sector. The audit, carried out in November 2024, was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of measures implemented by Polish authorities following a 2021 report regarding the traceability and safety of beef and poultry meat. The findings raise serious concerns about the reliability of the industry’s self-monitoring systems. A primary point of contention in the report is the consistent and substantial discrepancy between official testing results and the self-monitoring data provided by food producers. Official controls performed by the authorities show Salmonella detection rates several times higher than those reported by producers, a gap that undermines the credibility of the current monitoring framework.

Outbreak of HPAI in South Korea: 2025/2026 Season Update

06 January, 2026

As of January 2026, South Korea is experiencing a marked increase in Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) activity. Official data reported on January 5, 2026, indicate that 30 outbreaks have been confirmed in commercial poultry farms during the 2025/2026 winter season. Epidemiological data demonstrate a pronounced escalation in viral activity, with December 2025 accounting for 22 of these outbreaks, in contrast to the sporadic cases reported between September and November.

Newcastle Disease Resurfaces in Spain

05 January, 2026

Spain’s official veterinary services have reported a series of Newcastle Disease (ND) outbreaks in the Valencia region, specifically within the municipality of Llutxent. This marks the first time the virus has been detected in the country in over three years. The first case was confirmed on December 29, 2025, at a broiler farm housing approximately 15,000 birds. Following intensive surveillance, three additional secondary outbreaks were identified on January 2, 2026.

Israel Reports Season’s First H5N1 HPAI Outbreak

04 January, 2026

The Israeli Veterinary Services of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security officially confirmed the season's first outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza on January 4, 2026. The pathogen was detected in a flock of mature breeding ducks (approximately 41 weeks old) in Moshav Sde Ya'akov, located in the ecologically sensitive Jezreel Valley.

Over 700 HPAI Outbreaks Reported in European Commercial Farms in 2025

01 January, 2026

The 2025 annual summary report from the European Commission’s Animal Disease Information System (ADIS) reveals a concerning trend regarding the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) across the continent. Cumulative data collected between January 1 and December 31, 2025, shows a total of 727 reported outbreaks of H5N1 and H5 strains specifically within the commercial poultry sector.