Map 1. Global distribution of AIV with zoonotic potential observed since 1 October 2025 (i.e. current wave)

Symbols may overlap for events in similar geographic locations.

Notes: Refer to the disclaimer available on this webpage for the names and boundaries in this map. The final boundary between the Sudan and South Sudan has not yet been determined. The final status of the Abyei area is not yet determined. The dotted line represents approximately the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir agreed upon by India and Pakistan. The final status of Jammu and Kashmir has not yet been agreed upon by the parties.
Source: United Nations Geospatial. 2020. Map of the World. [Cited January 2026]. Modified with GLW 4 data and Emergency Prevention System Global Animal Disease Information System (EMPRES-i), WOAH and National Authorities data, 2025.

Map 2. Global distribution of AIV with zoonotic potential* observed in the period 1 October 2024 to 30 September 2025 (i.e. previous wave)

Symbols may overlap for events in similar geographic locations.

Notes: Refer to the disclaimer available on this webpage for the names and boundaries in this map. Final boundary between the Sudan and South Sudan has not yet been determined. Final status of the Abyei area is not yet determined. Dotted line represents approximately the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir agreed upon by India and Pakistan. The final status of Jammu and Kashmir has not yet been agreed upon by the parties.
Source: United Nations Geospatial. 2020. Map of the World. [Cited October 2025]. Modified with GLW 4 data and Emergency Prevention System Global Animal Disease Information System (EMPRES-i), WOAH and National Authorities data, 2024.

Recent publications

Domestic

Chin, S., Soputhy, C., Seng, H., Mom, S., Sar, B., Finlay, A., Tan, K.R., et al. 2026. Investigation of a Family Cluster of Human Infections With Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus, Clade 2.3.2.1e, in Cambodia, February 2023. Influenza Other Respir Viruses, 20(2):e70231. https://doi.org/10.1111/irv.70231

Jiang, M., Wang, J., Hou, Y., Xie, W., Xiong, H., Xu, T., Xiong, W., Wang, H., Kang, X. & Li, J. 2026. Comparative and predictive analysis of avian influenza in live bird markets of the Poyang Lake region: a long-term monitoring study. Virol J, 2026 Feb 14. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12985-026-03098-1

Goujgoulova, G., Stoimenov, G. & Koev, K. 2026. Molecular Characterization of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 Viruses Circulating in Bulgaria During 2024–2025: Evidence for Hidden Circulation and Zoonotic Risk Markers. Int J Mol Sci, 27(4):1711. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27041711

Shosha, E.A.E., Mohamd, M.K., Shehata, M.A.E., Mohamed, M.H., Eldaghayes, I.M. & Abdelhafez, M.S. 2026. Genomic and evolutionary characterization of newly emerged highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 clade (2023-2025). Vet World, 18(12):3745-3760. https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2025.3745-3760

Hennessey M, Thi TH, Raghwani J, Kim Y, Pham HTT, TH Nguyen, et al. 2026. Avian influenza A(H9N2) virus transmission across chicken production and distribution networks, Vietnam. Emerg Infect Dis, 2026 Feb. https://doi.org/10.3201/eid3202.251416

Wild

Si, Y.J., Lee, S.H., Lee, H.E., Kim, D.J., Jeong, H., Lee, S. & Lee, D.H. 2026. Early detection and genetic characterization of clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 and H5N9 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses at the onset of fall migration in wild birds during october 2025 in South Korea. Front Cell Infect Microbiol, 16:1755375. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2026.1755375

Chen, B.J., Liang, C.C., Li, Y.T., Chuang, T.W., Wu, H.I. & Chao, D.Y. 2026. Integrated approaches to explore temporal-spatial changes in gene reassortment of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5) virus in Eurasia, 2000-2023. Sci Rep, 2026 Feb 5. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-38466-y

Falchieri, M., Bentley, E., Coombes, H.A., Mollett, B.C., Terrey, J., Holland, S., Stubbings, E., et al. 2026. Detection of Two High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Virus (HPAIV) Subtypes, H5N1 and H5N5, in a Mass Mortality Event in Wild Seabirds and Co-Location With Dead Seals. Transbound Emerg Dis, 2026 Jan 24;2026:4680980. https://doi.org/10.1155/tbed/4680980

Brown, I. & Neil, C. 2026. Epidemiology and impact of high pathogenicity avian influenza in Europe 2020 to 2025. Can J Microbiol, 2026 Jan 20. https://doi.org/10.1139/cjm-2025-0214

Rømo, G., Åkesson, C.P., Reiertsen, T.K., Fosse, J.H., Bøe, C.A., Austbø, L., Åkerstedt, J., et al. 2026. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Caused Mass Death Among Black-Legged Kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla) in Norway, 2023. Transbound Emerg Dis, 2026 Feb 18;2026:2963364. https://doi.org/10.1155/tbed/2963364

Muzyka, N., Popova, A., Rula, O., Yurko, P., Chaplygina, A., Byrne, A.M.P., Lofts, A., et al. 2026. Wild passerines as potential carriers and sources of avian influenza viruses in Ukraine. Front Microbiol, 16:1736454. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2025.1736454

Papkiauri, A., Urushadze, L., Tevdoradze, T., Sidamonidze, K., Tomashvili, G., Gavashelidze, M., Ninua, L., et al. 2026. Genomic-based biosurveillance for avian influenza: whole genome sequencing from wild mallards sampled during autumn migration in 2022-2023 reveals a high co-infection rate on migration stopover site in Georgia. Front Microbiol, 17:1735728. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2026.1735728

Steinfurth, A., Lynton-Jenkins, J.G., Cleeland, J., Mollett, B.C., Coombes, H.A., Moores, A., Neal, R., et al. 2026. Investigating high pathogenicity avian influenza virus incursions to remote islands: Detection of H5N1 on Gough Island in the South Atlantic Ocean. Emerg Microbes Infect, 2026 Feb 3:2627076. https://doi.org/10.1080/22221751.2026.2627076

Fang, K., Li, J., Zhao, H., Bahati, J., Zhao, Z., Song, W. & Chen, T. 2026. Assessing HPAI-H5 transmission risk across wild bird migratory flyways in the United States. Nat Commun, 2026 Feb 9. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-69344-w

Nemeth, N.M., Andreasen, V.A., Weyna, A.A.W., Sargent, R., Cunningham, M., Kunkel, M.R., Oesterle, P.T., et al. 2026. Disease susceptibility and biological vulnerability of black vultures to fatal clade 2.3.4.4b highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection. Sci Rep, 16(1):6086. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-36912-5

Glucs, Z.E., Hunt, W.G., Kilpatrick, A.M., Ambrosini, J., Armstrong, D.J., Bell, D.A., Bianchi, J., et al. 2026. Rapid Decline Of Nesting Peregrine Falcons In The San Francisco Bay Region Of California Synchronous With An H5N1 Outbreak. bioRxiv, 2026.02.11.705416. https://doi.org/10.64898/2026.02.11.705416

Lejeune, M., Tornos, J., Bralet, T., De Pasquale, C., Marçon, E., Massin, P., Grasland, B., Stier, A. & Boulinier, T. 2026. Vaccination against H5 HP avian influenza virus leads to persistent immune response in wild king penguins. Nat Commun, 17(1):1395. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-69094-9

Hew, Y.L., Guinat, C., Couty, M., Fornasiero, D., Hiono, T., Isoda, N. & Sakoda, Y. 2026. Introduction and inter-species transmission dynamics of high pathogenicity avian influenza H5N1 viruses in Japan 2021-25. Virus Evol, 12(1):veag005. https://doi.org/10.1093/ve/veag005

Teitelbaum, C.S., Prosser, D.J., Ackerman, J.T., Ahmed, S., Alam, A.B.M.S., Azmiri, K.Z., Batbayar, N., et al. 2026. Waterfowl Move Less in Heterogeneous and Human-Populated Landscapes, With Implications for Spread of Avian Influenza Viruses. Ecol Lett, 29(1):e70265. https://doi.org/10.1111/ele.70265

Zhang, Q., Dong, J., Li, Z., Xiao, X., Yan, C., You, N., Yin, S., Zhang, Z., Batbayar, N. & Ma, K. 2026. Anthropogenic transformation in terrestrial habitats of avian influenza host birds in the 21st century. Sci Bull (Beijing), 2025 Dec 24:S2095-9273(25)01300-3. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scib.2025.12.035

Ma, J., Wang, Y.H., Qiu, Y.B., Chen, J.J., Han, Y., Zhang, Y., Lin, S.H., et al. 2026. A global dataset of spatiotemporal co-occurrence patterns of avian influenza virus-associated migratory birds. Sci Data, 2026 Feb 3. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41597-026-06701-w

Petie, R., Costa, E.F., Kampichler, C., Slaterus, R. & Gonzales, J.L. 2026. Identifying avian influenza hotspots in wild birds in the Netherlands. PLoS One, 21(2):e0341829. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0341829

Dupas, M.C., Falcucci, A., Pittiglio, C., Roche, X., Cinardi, G., Delgado, A., Seck, I., Dhingra, M. & Gilbert, M. 2026. Patterns of Avian Influenza Virus detection from active surveillance in wild birds: A systematic review and meta-analysis. One Health, 22:101338. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.onehlt.2026.101338

Mammal

Ye, Y., Shuai, H., Song, Y., Shum, M.H., Smith, D.K., Gu, H., Zhu, H., et al. 2026. Genomic features associated with sustained mammalian transmission of avian influenza A viruses. Nat Microbiol, 2026 Jan 27. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41564-025-02257-4

Alekseev, A., Sobolev, I., Sharshov, K., Gulyaeva, M., Kurskaya, O., Kasianov, N., Chistyaeva, M., et al. 2026. Pathobiology of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (H5N1 Clade 2.3.4.4b) Virus from Pinnipeds on Tyuleniy Island in the Sea of Okhotsk, Russia. Viruses, 18(1):51. https://doi.org/10.3390/v18010051

Encinas, P., Nogales, A., Escribano-Romero, E., Del Burgo, M.Á.M., López-Olvera, J.R., Granados, J.E., Mentaberre, G., García-Sastrem A. & Del Real, G. 2026. Longitudinal Surveillance of Influenza A Virus Exposure in Wild Boars (Sus scrofa) in Spain (2015-2023): Serologic and Virologic Evidence of Subtype Infections and H5N1 Spillover Risk. Zoonoses Public Health, 2026 Feb 10. https://doi.org/10.1111/zph.70040

Wang, G., Gao, X., Zhang, G., Deng, G. & Shi, J. 2026. Replication and Transmission of Influenza A Virus in Farmed Mink. Viruses, 18(1):9. https://doi.org/10.3390/v18010009

Belser, J.A., Brock, N., Sun, X., Kieran, T.J., Pulit-Penaloza, J.A., Pappas, C., Zeng, H., Gubareva, L.V., Uyeki, T.M. & Maines, T.R. 2026. Oseltamivir and baloxavir monotherapy and combination therapy efficacy against clade 2.3.4.4b A(H5N1) influenza virus infection in ferrets. Commun Biol, 2026 Jan 26. https://doi.org/10.1038/s42003-026-09607-w

Gwon, S.H., Park, S.I., Jeong, H., Kim, D., Son, Y., Lee, M.A., Lee, K., et al. 2026. Fatal H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza with Retrograde Neuroinvasion in a Free-Ranging Leopard Cat (Prionailurus bengalensis) During a Wild Bird Outbreak in South Korea. Animals (Basel), 16(2):200. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16020200

Son, D.H., Balupuri, A., Nam, J.H., Kim, I.H., Choi, Y.J., An, B.M., Kim, J.M., Kim, E.J. & Kang, N.S. 2026. Analyses of receptor binding specificity of highly pathogenic avian influenza a (H5N1) viruses isolated from felines in South Korea, 2023. Virulence, 2026 Feb 23:2636350. https://doi.org/10.1080/21505594.2026.2636350

Jańczak, D., Golke, A., Szymański, K., Hallmann, E., Pancer, K., Masny, A., Dzieciątkowski, T. & Szaluś-Jordanow, O. 2026. Clinical and Laboratory Findings in Cats with Confirmed Avian Influenza A/H5N1 Virus Infection During the 2023 Outbreak in Poland: A Retrospective Case Series of 22 Cats. Pathogens, 15(2):200. https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens15020200

Acevedo, H.D., Beeler, E., Crossley, B., Armién, A.G., Henderson, E.E., Asin, J., Middleton, J. & Uzal, F.A. 2026. Salpingitis and multiorgan lesions caused by highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus in a cat associated with consumption of recalled raw milk in California. J Vet Diagn Invest, 2026 Jan 29:10406387251413563. https://doi.org/10.1177/10406387251413563

Lehman, K.A., Leibsle, S.R., Detwiler, L., Gaborick, C., McCoy-Harrison, L., Snekvik, K., Lantz, K., Torchetti, M.K. & Robbe-Austerman, S. 2026. Detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus 2.3.4.4b in alpacas. J Vet Diagn Invest, 2026 Jan 29:10406387251414557. https://doi.org/10.1177/10406387251414557

Dairy

Righter, D.J., Howey, E.B., Siepker, C.L., Burrough, E.R., Magstadt, D.R., Mainenti, M., Fears, A., et al. 2026. Detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b virus in cull dairy cows with underlying respiratory and systemic disease. J Vet Diagn Invest, 2026 Feb 13:10406387261417354. https://doi.org/10.1177/10406387261417354

Poliakiwski, B.D., Minela, T., Smith, D.J., Seekford, Z.K., Cain, J.W., Polanco, O., Johnson, G.A., et al., K.G. 2026. Spatial localization of avian and human influenza A virus receptors in male and female bovine reproductive tissues. Sci Rep, 2026 Feb 20. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-36120-1

Byington, C.L., Stellwagen, L., Bode, L., Hooshmand, M., Pizzo, D.P., Russo, H. & Gonias, S.L. 2026. Milk as a Transmission Vehicle for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (H5N1). Pediatrics, 157(2):e2025072525. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2025-072525

Harrell, T.L., Shwani, A. & Suarez, D.L. 2026. The impact of acids, pH, and incubation time on avian influenza virus persistence in raw milk. Food Microbiol, 137:105015. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fm.2025.105015

Morel, G., Pham, A., Morgenstern, C., Hicks, J.T., Rawson, T., Fan, V.Y., Edmunds, W.J., Forchini, G. & Hauck, K. 2026. An outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 could impact the dairy cattle sector and the broader economy in the United States. Commun Earth Environ, 7(1):135. https://doi.org/10.1038/s43247-025-03153-9

Viruses

Yuan, Z., Wei, R., Shang, R., Zhang, H., Cheng, K., Ma, S., Zhou, L. & Yu, Z. 2026. Genetic Characterization and Evolutionary Insights of Novel H1N1 Swine Influenza Viruses Identified from Pigs in Shandong Province, China. Viruses, 18(1):117. https://doi.org/10.3390/v18010117

Tang, L., Wang, R. & He, G. 2026. Research note: Molecular characteristics and genetic evolution of H1N1 avian influenza virus from wild birds in Shanghai, China. Poult Sci, 105(4):106580. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psj.2026.106580

Yang, X., Gao, Q., Xi, Z., Zhao, P. & Zhao, J. 2026. Prevalence and Heterogeneity of Swine Influenza Virus in China From 2010 to 2025: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Transbound Emerg Dis, 2026:1096796. https://doi.org/10.1155/tbed/1096796

Jiao, J., Ding, J., Sun, Z., Chi, C., Liu, S., Jiang, S., Chen, N., Zheng, W., Ding, X. & Zhu, J. 2026. Characterization of a reassortant H3N2 swine influenza virus with 2009 pandemic internal genes and enhanced potential for zoonotic risk. Vet Microbiol, 315:110937. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vetmic.2026.110937

Peng, J., Miao, X., Zhang, X., Li, Z., Wang, Y., Liu, G., Na, L., Xu, N. & Peng, D. 2026. Molecular Characterization of an H3N2 Canine Influenza Virus Isolated from a Dog in Jiangsu, China, in 2025. Vet Sci, 13(1):32. https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13010032

Ga, E., Bae, E., Xie, X., Hwang, J., Yeom, M., Lim, J.-W., Song D. & Na, W. 2026. Acquisition of amantadine resistance via M gene reassortment in canine H3N2 influenza virus and elucidation of the resistance mechanism. Virol J, 2026 Feb 13. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12985-026-03097-2

Han, X., Zhong, M., Yang, Y., Fang, S., Shi, Y., Lin, Y., Zhang, X., et al. 2026. Two kinds of novel reassortment H3 subtypes of avian influenza viruses: similar genetic composition, different mammalian transmission capabilities. Poult Sci, 105(4):106564. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psj.2026.106564

Bashashati, M., Fallah Mehrabadi, M.H., Moradi Haghgou, L., Chalesh, A. & Sabouri, F. 2026. H4N6 avian influenza virus in Iran: first isolation and molecular insights. Virus Genes, 2026 Feb 3. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11262-026-02215-0

Luo, W.R., Yu, J.L., Sun, Y., Gong, L., Hou, S., Lu, Z.H., Fang, W.X., et al. 2026. A case of avian influenza A (H5N6) presented with secondary infection in Anhui Province, China, 2024. J Microbiol Immunol Infect, 2026 Jan 29:S1684-1182(26)00003-4. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmii.2026.01.002

Esaki, M., Okuya, K., Onuma, M. & Ozawa, M. 2026. Genetically distinct H5N2 high pathogenicity avian influenza virus isolated from a peregrine falcon on Amami-Oshima Island, Japan, harboring enhanced pathogenicity-associated amino acids in the PA protein. Virology, 617:110794. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.virol.2026.110794

Song, Y., Song, S., Yan, A., Gong, H., Yang, H., Guan, F., Zhang, M., et al. 2026. A Novel Recombinant Chicken-Derived H6N8 Subtype Avian Influenza Virus Caused Disease in Chickens and Mice. Viruses, 18(1):12. https://doi.org/10.3390/v18010012

Liu, K., Wang, X., Huang, J., Liu, P., Sun, Y., Yang, W., Lu, X., et al. 2026. Zoonotic Threat of Novel H6N2 Avian Influenza Virus with Internal Genes Exclusively Derived from H9N2, China, 2025. J Infect, 2026 Feb 18:106705. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jinf.2026.106705

Yan, S., Hu, C., Li, H., Zhang, X., Wei, Q., Chen, H., Chu, D., Liu, Q., Su, R. & Chen, J.L. 2026. Genetic evolution and pathogenicity analysis of two natural recombinant isolates of avian influenza. Poult Sci, 105(4):106536. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psj.2026.106536

Song, Y., Yan, A., Song, S., Gong, H., Chen, L., Fu, B., Zhang, M., et al. 2026. Phylogenetic Analyses and Biological Characterization of H9N2 Avian Influenza Virus Isolated from Chickens in China from 2022 to 2023. Microorganisms, 14(1):37. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14010037

Li, H., Yan, W., Liu, X., Gao, B., Peng, J., Jiang, F., Cui, Q., et al. 2026. Emergence and Phylodynamics of Influenza D Virus in Northeast China Reveal Sporadic Detection and Predominance of the D/Yamagata/2019 Lineage in Cattle. Viruses, 18(1):93. https://doi.org/10.3390/v18010093

Trombetta, C.M., Fiori, A., Falsini, A., Pellegrini, F., Le Poder, S., Eichenbaum, A, Cardona, V., et al. 2026. Multicenter serologic investigation of influenza D virus in cats and dogs, Europe, 2015–2024. Emerg Infect Dis, 2026 Feb. https://doi.org/10.3201/eid3202.251164

Assay, Sampling, Immunization

Márquez, A.C., Beitari, S., Valadbeigy, T., Hoang, L., Berhane, Y. & Jassem, A.N. 2026. Detection of Avian Influenza H5-Specific Antibodies by Chemiluminescent Assays. Emerg Infect Dis, 32(1):129-132. https://doi.org/10.3201/eid3201.251117

Tian, C., Feng, L., Zhou, X., Huang, K., Wang, F., Luo, R., Meng, F., et al. 2026. A Portable One-Tube Assay Integrating RT-RPA and CRISPR/Cas12a for Rapid Visual Detection of Eurasian Avian-like H1N1 Swine Influenza Virus in the Field. Viruses, 18(1):47. https://doi.org/10.3390/v18010047

Viner, T.C., Dirks, D., Straughan, D.J. & Hauck, T. 2026. Fly larvae as an alternative sample for the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus. J Vet Diagn Invest, 2026 Feb 13:10406387251415197. https://doi.org/10.1177/10406387251415197

Chu, H., Hao, Z., Zhang, L., Lou, Y., Hua, Y., Gao, W., Li, F., et al. 2026. Evaluation of Rice Traits Containing H9N2 Subtype Avian Influenza HA Protein Before Commercialization. Curr Issues Mol Biol, 47(12):986. https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47120986

Shila, R.A., Hossain, I., Parvin, R., Chowdhury, E.H. & Begum, J.A. 2026. Chicken Origin Tribasic H9N2 Avian Influenza Virus Induces Potent Early Antiviral Response With Low Pathogenicity in Japanese Quails. Vet Med Sci, 12(2):e70834. https://doi.org/10.1002/vms3.70834

Disinfection

Song, S., Park, S.-H., Shin, K.-S., Ku, H.-O., & Jeong, W. 2026. Concentration- and Time-Dependent Virucidal Responses of Major Transboundary Animal Disease Viruses to Disinfectants. Viruses, 18(2):225. https://doi.org/10.3390/v18020225

Morioka, M., Takeda, Y., Ohnishi, M. & Ogawa, H. 2026. Virucidal multipurpose aqueous solution containing quaternary ammonium cation and sulfobetaine is effective against highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses. Bioorg Med Chem Lett, 136:130592. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bmcl.2026.130592

Hew, Y.L., Isoda, N., Miura, T., Hiono, T. & Sakoda, Y. 2026. Evaluation of the Efficacy of Low-Concentration Gaseous Chlorine Dioxide in Inactivating Airborne H5 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Virus in Vivo Model. Food Environ Virol, 18(1):4. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12560-026-09677-3

Nunayon, S.S., Glover, K., Xu, M. & Zhong, L. 2026. Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation and ventilation for avian influenza control in poultry farms: A comprehensive review. J Hazard Mater, 505:141454. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.141454

Modelling, Risk mapping, Risk assessment

Dupas, M.C., Vincenti-Gonzalez, M.F., Dhingra, M., Guinat, C., Vergne, T., Wint, W., Hendrickx, G., Marsboom, C., Gilbert, M. & Dellicour, S. 2026. Global risk mapping of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 and H5Nx in the light of epidemic episodes occurring from 2020 onwards. Elife, 2026 Jan 28;14:RP104748. https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.104748

Su, Y., Wu, R., Liu, P., Li, Z., Pu, J. & Wang, L. 2026. Integrated region-specific modeling of H5 avian influenza in Asia using ENSO-based forecasts. One Health. 22:101322. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.onehlt.2026.101322

Boudouma, F., Hajji, H., Ducatez, M., Arbani, O., Aitelkadi, K. & Fellahi, S. 2026. Spatial risk mapping of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Morocco using geographic information system and multi-criteria decision analysis: Implications for targeted surveillance and control. Vet World, 18(12):3713-3730. https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2025.3713-3730

Rusinà, A., Bellato, A., Scollo, A., Mannelli, A. & Tomassone, L. 2026. Swine Influenza Virus Introduction in Pig Farms: A Semi-Quantitative Risk Assessment in Northern Italy. Animals, 16(4):544. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16040544

Opinion

Togami, E., Guo, E.A., Liao, J. & Ostroff, S., Sleeman, J.M. & Mumford, E.L. 2026. Building trust before the next crisis: lessons from the avian influenza front lines. Front Public Health, 13:1735139. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2025.1735139

Sakkos, A., Saint-John, B., Tyml, T., Myskova, E., Aureli, L., Inman, J.L., Snijders, A.M., Mouncey, N.J., Mukundan, H. & Schulz, F. 2026. Agnostic capture of pathogens for the detection and diagnostics of emerging threats. iScience, 29(2):114684. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2026.114684

FAO's support to countries

Global level

• CMS―Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals―holds a webinar entitled “Health and Migratory Species―Bridging Conservation And Health” on 11 March 2026, 15:00 (GMT+1). Migratory species connect ecosystems; migratory birds have spread HPAI and are also the victim of the disease. Register HERE. The CMS and FAO have been working together through co-convened Scientific Task Force on Avian Influenza and Wild Birds.
• On 5 February 2026, FAO held a second webinar on avian influenza under the Global Framework for the Progressive Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases (GF-TADs) entitled “Update on latest initiatives for avian influenza prevention and control”, with the participation of FAO, WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health) and the OFFLU (WOAH/FAO Network of Expertise on Animal Influenza). Recordings of both sessions are available at the following links: Webinar 1 and Webinar 2.
• The WHO Vaccine Composition Meeting (VCM) is taking place in Istanbul, Türkiye, on 23-27 February 2026, OFFLU (WOAH/FAO Network of Expertise on Animal Influenza) will provide critical genetic, antigenic and epidemiological data on circulating avian and swine influenza viruses from its international network to inform WHO’s assessment of candidate vaccine viruses for pandemic preparedness. [link, recording of the information meeting]
• The ggFlu global H5 genotyping system is now available as a public web server and provides a standardized framework for assigning and comparing H5 avian influenza genotypes worldwide. It was developed at Hong Kong University in close coordination with, and with expert review from, the OFFLU Avian Technical Activity.
• FAO released ALERT “Increased risk of high pathogenicity avian influenza introduction and spread in Africa” on 22 December 2025. [link]
• A HPAI Global Situation Update Webinar was organized on 18 December 2025 under the umbrella of the Global Framework for the Progressive Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases (GF-TADs). [link]
• FAO released “Improving poultry health and productivity - Practical training materials for veterinarians and farmers for better farm management”. These materials support veterinarians, advisors and farmers in strengthening biosecurity, hygiene, animal health and management practices that are directly relevant to the prevention and control of avian influenza. By promoting improved husbandry and health practices, the materials contribute to more resilient poultry production systems and reduced risk at the human–animal interface. [link]

Regional/country level

• Americas
• FAO RLC participated in the 1st Latin American Congress on One Health held in Peru on 4 December, presented examples of One Health approaches in agricultural systems, as well as One Health initiatives in the region.
• A hybrid event to implement EMA-i was carried out in Venezuela from 2 to 4 December, to train professionals from the Instituto Nacional de Salud Agrícola Integral (INSAI) at the national and regional levels.
• On 3 December, the second meeting of the GF-TADs Americas Interagency Group was held, during which the actions of each agency in relation to the 5 priority diseases in the region (New world screwworm, African and Classical Swine fever, Food and Mouth Disease and Highly pathogenic Avian Influenza) were reviewed. This group meets twice a year to coordinate actions. Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), International Regional Organization for Plant and Animal Health (OIRSA), Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/PANAFTOSA, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), WHO, and FAO participated.
• A regional review and update in the diagnosis of influenza in birds and other animal species will be done on 25 March 2026. Laboratory specialists of the regional labs will be invited, including public and private ones. Experts from the Federal Agricultural Defense Laboratory-Sao Paulo (LFDA-SP) and the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVe), both FAO Reference Centres for avian influenza, will also be participating in this event.

• Africa
  • FAO has supported participation from Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Chad, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, The Gambia, Togo, United Republic of Tanzania and Zambia to the training workshops for veterinary laboratories on the transport of infectious substances organized by the AU-PANVAC (African Union-Pan African Veterinary Vaccine Centre) in Abidjan for French-speaking countries (December 2025) and in Accra for English-speaking countries (February 2026). After passing the final exam of the training course the participants receive certificates, which will allow countries to send any diagnostic specimens in accordance with international regulations.
  • FAO Burundi has signed a Letter of Agreement (LoA) with the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) for training in Field Epidemiology (FETP frontline with the updated version) to strengthen surveillance. Letter of Agreement (LoA) with the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) for Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP frontline with the updated version incorporating the One Health approach [link]) for 20 actors in animal health (11), environmental health (1) and human health (8). Training for the first cohort is underway: the first workshop completed; initial fieldwork supervised by "mentors" completed; The second mentoring and supervision mission for the mentees' fieldwork No. II took place from 19 to 23 January. The end of the training and graduation took place at the third workshop from 2 to 4 February.
  • FAO Central Africa Republic trained 18 trainers from the ministries responsible for livestock, wildlife and the environment on reporting suspected cases of animal diseases, including HPAI, using the EMA-i+ and provided 10 tablets to the Directorate-General of Veterinary Services for real-time notification of health events using EMA-i+.
  • FAO Ghana has provided diagnostic reagents/consumables for Avian Influenza for the veterinary laboratory under the Pandemic Fund to enhance early detection capabilities; and through the Early Warning project, supported the Accra Veterinary Laboratory in Ghana in sending its samples to Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVe), a FAO Reference Centre laboratory in Padua, Italy for confirmation and genetic characterization. The results showed the presence of HPAI H5N1 viruses, belonging, as expected, to clade 2.3.4.4b. The whole-genome sequencing revealed two distinct genotypes: one was the usual (already identified in Ghana in 2024) and the other was genotype EA-2024-DI.2, which was predominant among HPAI H5N1 viruses in Europe during the period 2024–2025. This European-origin genotype could represent a new introduction to West Africa. In addition, H9N2 viruses were also identified and were found to be very similar to viruses previously detected in Ghana in 2024, indicating likely continued circulation in the country and/or region.
  • FAO Zimbabwe was invited to attend the HPAI situational analysis in the country led by CIRAD (French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development) under the Zoosursy project. This was a multi-sectoral engagement that brought up the many gaps in capacity and practices of the country in HPAI surveillance.

• North Africa and Middle East
• As part of the Pandemic Fund Tunisia project, a training workshop on Biosafety, Biosecurity, and Biological Risk Assessment was held in Tunis on 2–3 February 2026. The workshop brought together managers of veterinary laboratories and partner laboratories from veterinary services across different ministries, following a One Health approach.
• Two training sessions on the EMA-i+ application were held in Tunisia on 16–17 February 2026, for veterinarians from the four pilot regions. The sessions aimed to strengthen the early warning system and train participants in the use of EMA-i+ and the national EMPRES-i+ platform, while clarifying the animal health information flow.
• FAO Egypt is planning a One Health simulation exercise on HPAI for 2026 supported by the Pandemic Fund project.
  

• Asia and the Pacific
• FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP) participated in the One Health Workshop on the Multi-Sectoral Prevention and Control of Avian Influenza for the Southeast Asia region held on 20-22 January 2026 in Singapore [link].
• FAO Indonesia conducted the annual Integrated Virus Monitoring (IVM) networking and management meetings on 18 and 19 December 2025 to review and consolidate national surveillance findings on circulating AIV for the period of July to December 2025. During the meeting, national veterinary health laboratories, private sector partners, and universities presented updates on avian influenza detection, genetic and antigenic characterization, and environmental surveillance. Based on reports shared, no detections of HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b were identified in Indonesia in 2025. The dominant circulating strain remained HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.2.1g, with occasional detections of LPAI H9N2 clade B4.5. These viruses were detected in poultry and environmental samples, including live bird markets (LBM), across multiple provinces, particularly from Java, Lampung, South Sulawesi, and Kalimantan. Environmental and animal surveillance data continue to demonstrate widespread circulation of AIV among chickens, quail, ducks, and Muscovy ducks. Antigenic characterization, including hemagglutination inhibition testing and antigenic cartography, suggests increasing antigenic drift between recent field isolates and the A/chicken/Tanggamus/2017 vaccine strain, as reflected by reduced heterologous HI titres. This finding indicates a potential reduction in vaccine coverage and highlights the need for continued antigenic monitoring and vaccine matching assessment.
• FAO Viet Nam is conducting cross-border poultry value chain analysis in four border provinces including Tuyen Quang, Ha Tinh, Dong Thap and An Giang. The activity is also supported by Japan through IOM, with the goal to identify hotspot for AI transmission in conjunction with human movement. The results will be used to guide the training of commune animal health workers and establishing provincial One Health zoonoses response teams organized in Fabruary – March 2026.
• From 19-30 January 2026, FAO Cambodia and FAO Viet Nam, in partnership with the General Directorate of Animal Health and Production (GDAHP) of Cambodia and the Department of Animal Health and Production (DAHP) of Viet Nam, organized technical exchange missions in Viet Nam and Cambodia to strengthen preparedness against transboundary animal diseases (TADs). Building on this collaboration, FAO in Lao PDR and FAO Viet Nam, in partnership with Department of Livestock and Fisheries (DLF) of Lao PDR and DAHP of Viet Nam, are also conducting technical exchange missions in Viet Nam and Lao PDR to strengthen preparedness against TADs in February 2026. With funding from the Pandemic Fund and IOM, the exchange aims to enhance diagnostic capacity, biosafety practices, and laboratory collaboration under the One Health approach. The missions focus on priority diseases including HPAI, African swine fever and foot-and-mouth disease, which pose ongoing risks to animal and public health across borders. Through hands-on learning, peer-to-peer exchange, and field visits, the initiative aims to improve early detection and coordinated response in border areas, reinforcing regional health security in the Greater Mekong Sub-region.
• FAO Nepal supported Central Veterinary Laboratory and Veterinary Laboratories to conduct the avian influenza biosurveillance during December 2025- January 2026 from 20 districts of Nepal. Sample collection have been completed which will soon undergo testing.
• With the support from the Pandemic Funs, the FAO Philippines in partnership with the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) conducted Local Animal Disease Detection and Emergency Response (LADDER) Training for veterinarians, animal health workers, and veterinary students in Regions 3 (Central Luzon) and 8 (CALABARZON) last 21-24 October 2025 and 9-13 February 2026, respectively. Through this training, the participants learned and conducted basic risk analysis, priority transboundary animal diseases (TADs) and updated list of priority zoonotic diseases, disease reporting, outbreak investigation and response, and proper necropsy, sample collection and management prior to submission to the laboratories. The FAO Philippines, through its partnership with the Philippine College of Veterinary Epidemiologist conducted Risk Analysis Training for animal health and quarantine officers of the BAI. This training aimed at expanding participants understanding and application of on RA as tool for identifying, analysing, and managing the risks using real life scenarios.

Recommendations for affected countries and those at risk

FAO recommends intensified surveillance and awareness raising by national authorities.

General recommendations
It is important to report sick or dead birds – both wild birds and poultry - or wild mammals to local authorities (veterinary services, public health officials, community leaders etc.). These should be tested for avian influenza viruses.

Recommendations to poultry producers
Farmers and poultry producers should step up their biosecurity measures in order to prevent potential virus introduction from wild birds or their faeces.

Recommendations to hunters
Hunting associations and wildlife authorities should be aware that avian influenza viruses might be present in waterfowl and some other species hunted and that hunting, handling and dressing of shot game carries the risk of spreading avian influenza viruses to susceptible poultry.

Recommendations to national authorities
Increase surveillance efforts for the early detection of influenza viruses in poultry and dead wild species including certain mammals.

For full recommendations including non-avian species please see [link].

Important links

• FAO & WOAH Global strategy for the prevention and control of high pathogenicity avian influenza (2024–2033) - Achieving sustainable, resilient poultry production systems
• FAO/WHO/WOAH Updated joint FAO/WHO/WOAH public health assessment of recent influenza A(H5) virus events in animals and people - July 2025
• FAO HPAI website [link]
• FAO Iguaçu statement from the 'Global Science, Policy and Private Sector Dialogue ― Tackling HPAI Together’
• FAO Improving poultry health and productivity - Practical training materials for veterinarians and farmers for better farm management
• FAO Global Farmer Field School Platform
• FAO webinar series on pandemic prevention and response
• FAO Outbreak Costing Tool (OutCosT) and its webinar “Estimating the costs of disease outbreaks: Application of the OutCost tool” [recording]
• FAO An evidence-based approach towards improving poultry biosecurity in Ashaiman Municipal District (Greater Accra Region, Ghana)
• FAO Emergencia y respuesta a la influenza aviar de alta patogenicidad H5N1 en América Central, América del Sur y el Caribe - Informe técnico regional para el período octubre de 2022 a septiembre de 2024
• EFSA Avian influenza overview September - November 2025
• OFFLU website
• OFFLU Guidelines for High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Virus Risk Mitigation in Cattle
• PAHO Epidemiological Update Avian Influenza A(H5N1) in the Americas Region, 24 November 2025
• Scientific Task Force on Avian Influenza and Wild Birds H5N1 High pathogenicity avian influenza in wild birds - Unprecedented conservation impacts and urgent needs
• WHO Influenza at the human-animal interface summary and assessment, 19 December 2025
• WOAH High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI) Situation Report 77 - November 2025
• WOAH Wildlife Diseases Situation Report 02/25, Jul–Sep 2025
• The list of wild bird and mammalian species which have been infected with H5Nx HPAI [link]

Note: many publication links have been moved into ‘More important links’ below.

Disclaimer

Information provided herein is current as of the date of issue. Information added or changed since the last Global AIV with Zoonotic Potential situation update appears in orange. Human cases are depicted in the geographic location of their report. For some cases, exposure may have occurred in one geographic location but reported in another. For cases with unknown onset date, reporting date was used instead. FAO compiles information drawn from multiple national (Ministries of Agriculture or Livestock, Ministries of Health, Provincial Government websites; Centers for Disease Prevention and Control [CDC]) and international sources (World Health Organization [WHO], World Organisation for Animal Health [WOAH]), as well as peer reviewed scientific articles. FAO makes every effort to ensure, but does not guarantee, accuracy, completeness or authenticity of the information. The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on these map(s) do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of FAO concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers and boundaries. Dashed lines on maps represent approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement.