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Published on: August 2, 2011
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Avian influenza overview September-December 2024
EFSA Journal. European Food Safety Authority
|January 13, 2025
Summary
Highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) and A(H5N5) viruses circulated widely in European birds. Human infections remained rare, with low public risk in Europe, though occupational exposure poses moderate risk.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology and Epidemiology
- Zoonotic Disease Surveillance
- Public Health Microbiology
Background:
- Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) poses a significant threat to avian populations and can have zoonotic implications.
- Monitoring the spread and evolution of HPAI viruses, such as A(H5N1) and A(H5N5), is crucial for early detection and control.
- Understanding transmission dynamics in both wild and domestic animals informs risk assessment for human populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on the detections of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) and A(H5N5) viruses in birds across Europe during a specific period.
- To document the geographic and host range expansion of A(H5N5) viruses.
- To summarize human cases of avian influenza virus infection and assess associated risks.
Main Methods:
- Surveillance data collection on HPAI virus detections in domestic and wild birds across 27 European countries.
- Analysis of outbreak patterns, including clustering and secondary spread in domestic poultry.
- Compilation and review of reported human cases and exposure histories.
Main Results:
- 657 HPAI A(H5N1) and A(H5N5) virus detections were reported in European birds (341 domestic, 316 wild) between September and December 2024.
- A(H5N5) viruses showed expanded geographic and host range, affecting waterfowl, gulls, and crows.
- 56 new human avian influenza cases were reported globally, primarily linked to poultry or dairy cattle exposure in North America.
Conclusions:
- The risk of infection with circulating avian A(H5) influenza viruses in the general public within the EU/EEA remains low.
- Individuals with occupational or direct exposure to infected animals or contaminated environments face a low-to-moderate risk.
- Continued surveillance and monitoring are essential to track HPAI virus evolution and potential zoonotic transmission.
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