Published in News
Animal Disease Outbreaks Rise Across Europe
A new ADIS Outbreaks Weekly Report from the European Commission shows multiple animal disease outbreaks spreading across Europe, with African swine fever and bird flu among the most common.
Martina Osmak
Director of Marketing
Overview of the Situation
The ADIS weekly monitoring report covers the period from 16 April to 22 April 2026 and tracks officially reported animal disease cases across Europe.
The data shows that several diseases are affecting livestock and wildlife across many countries. These include viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections.
The report reflects only confirmed cases recorded at the time of publication.
African Swine Fever Dominates
African swine fever is the most widespread disease in the report.
It mainly affects wild boar, but also appears in domestic pigs in some countries.
Key points:
Large numbers of cases in Germany, Poland, Lithuania, and Romania
Spread continues across Central and Eastern Europe
Wild boar remain the main carriers
This disease does not infect humans, but it causes serious economic losses for farmers.
Bird Flu Continues to Spread
High pathogenic avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is another major concern.
The report shows cases in both wild birds and poultry.
Affected countries include:
Germany
France
Sweden
Poland
Denmark
Wild birds such as swans, geese, and gulls are often involved. In some areas, poultry farms have also been impacted, which raises concern for food supply chains.
Foot and Mouth Disease in Southern Europe
Foot and mouth disease has been reported in countries like Greece and Cyprus.
This disease spreads quickly among:
Cattle
Sheep
Goats
Pigs
The report lists dozens of outbreaks, especially in livestock farms. Authorities usually respond with movement restrictions and culling to control spread.
Other Diseases Detected
Several other diseases appear in smaller numbers but still raise concern:
Anthrax reported in Bulgaria
Rabies cases in Romania and Moldova
West Nile fever detected in France and Italy
Lumpy skin disease in cattle in Italy
Newcastle disease in birds across multiple countries
Each of these diseases affects different species and requires specific control measures.
Impact on Farmers and Trade
Animal disease outbreaks can disrupt:
Food production
International trade
Farmer livelihoods
Countries may restrict animal movement or exports when outbreaks occur. This can lead to economic losses beyond the farms directly affected.
Why Monitoring Matters
The weekly report helps authorities:
Track disease spread
Respond quickly to outbreaks
Protect both animal and public health
Early detection is key to limiting damage.
Looking Ahead
Experts expect continued monitoring in the coming weeks.
Seasonal factors, wildlife movement, and farming practices can all influence how diseases spread.
Authorities across Europe remain on alert as they work to contain current outbreaks and prevent new ones.
Source: https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/tracesnt/adis/public/notification/outbreaks-weekly-report