Disease Outbreaks in Europe: February 8th & 9th, 2025

Avian influenza continues to be a major concern worldwide, with new outbreaks reported in Australia and Ukraine. These cases highlight the ongoing challenges faced by both poultry farmers and wildlife conservation efforts.

🔹 Australia – H7N8 Avian Influenza Detected in Poultry

Authorities in Australia have confirmed an outbreak of high pathogenicity avian influenza (H7N8) in poultry. This strain of the virus poses a significant risk to commercial poultry farms, potentially leading to economic losses and strict biosecurity measures to contain the spread. Past outbreaks of avian influenza in Australia have resulted in culling efforts and trade restrictions, and officials are closely monitoring the situation to prevent further transmission.

🔹 Ukraine – H5N1 Avian Influenza in Wild Birds

In Ukraine, the highly pathogenic influenza A (H5N1) virus has been detected in wild birds, continuing an outbreak that has been affecting non-poultry species. The presence of H5N1 in wild birds raises concerns about potential spillover to domestic poultry farms, as well as risks to biodiversity. Avian influenza in wild bird populations often serves as a reservoir for the virus, making it difficult to control and predict outbreaks.

Ongoing Monitoring and Prevention

Both outbreaks emphasize the importance of strict biosecurity measures, surveillance programs, and rapid response strategies to prevent the further spread of these viruses. Countries around the world are on high alert, particularly as avian influenza continues to evolve and impact global poultry industries and ecosystems.

📢 Stay tuned for further updates on these outbreaks and their implications for poultry and wildlife conservation.

Source: https://wahis.woah.org/#/home