Europe records the lowest number of bird flu cases since 2020, but warns that it continues to circulate in birds

A recent report from the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control, the European Food Safety Authority, and the EU Reference Laboratory indicates a significant decrease in cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Europe since the 2019/2020 season, with the risk to the general population remaining low. Between April and June 2024, only 42 cases were reported across 13 countries, primarily in wild birds. Authorities recommend increased surveillance due to the ongoing circulation of the virus. The situation in other parts of the world is not as optimistic, with the United States and Australia reporting significant HPAI outbreaks in various animals, including a new genotype in the USA and the first cases in alpacas and walruses, respectively. Human infections have been reported in several countries, with most cases linked to exposure to poultry or dairy cattle. The risk to the general population remains low, but those with occupational or other exposure to infected animals or environments may face a higher risk.