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Sub-Saharan Africa HPAI situation update

10 April 2025, 08:30 hours; Rome

Overview

Situation: High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) virus (H5, H5N1, H5N2, H5N6, H5N8, H7 and H7N6 subtypes) with pandemic potential in countries of Sub-Saharan Africa since February 2017.
Confirmed countries (H5): South Africa
Confirmed countries (H5N1): Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Réunion (France), Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Lesotho, Mali, Mauritania, Namibia, Niger*, Nigeria*, Senegal, South Africa and Togo*.
Confirmed countries (H5N2): Nigeria and South Africa.
Confirmed countries (H5N6): Nigeria.
Confirmed countries (H5N8): Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.
Confirmed countries (H7): South Africa.
Confirmed countries (H7N6): South Africa and Mozambique.
Animal findings: 9 new events since the last update on 13 March 2025.
Number of human cases: no new event since last update.
*Countries reporting cases in current wave (since 1 October 2024).

Map. Officially reported HPAI outbreaks (H5Nx and H7Nx subtypes) in sub-Saharan Africa, by onset date (1 October 2023 to date)

Map A shows confirmed HPAI events observed from 1 October to 30 September 2024. Map B shows HPAI events observed from 1 October 2022 to 30 September 2023.

Notes: Refer to the disclaimer available on this webpage for the names and boundaries in this map. Final boundary between the Republic of Sudan and the Republic of South Sudan has not yet been determined. Final status of the Abyei area is not yet determined.
Source: United Nations Geospatial. 2020. Map of the World. [Cited April 2025]. Modified with Emergency Prevention System Global Animal Disease Information System (EMPRES-i), WOAH and National Authorities data, 2025. Map A shows confirmed HPAI events observed from 1 October 2024 to date. Map B shows HPAI events observed from 1 October 2023 to 30 September 2024.

Situation update

Table. High pathogenicity avian influenza events reported in animals since 1 October 2024 (i.e. current wave). 

VirusCountry (administrative regions affected)Last event observed# events reported since the last updateTotal #events since 1 October 2024Species affected since the last update or during the last observed events

H5N1

Mauritania

15/04/2023

0

0

Caspian Tern

Niger

05/02/2025

1

1

Domestic poultry

Nigeria
(Federal Capital Territory, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Plateau, Zamfara)

16/03/2025

5

18

Domestic poultry (chicken, duck, guinea fowl, turkey)

Togo
(Centre, Maritime)

19/03/2025

4

4

Domestic poultry

For a summary of H5N1, H5N6, and H5N8 HPAI events reported in sub-Saharan African countries in previous waves (i.e. before 1 October 2024) please contact EMPRES-Animal Health

Peer-reviewed publications

Arbani O, Ducatez MF, Kadja-Wonou M, Salamat F, Kichou F, El Houadfi M, Fellahi S. 2025. Development of an experimental model using cold stress to assess the pathogenicity of two Moroccan AI H9N2 isolates from 2016 and 2022 in commercial broiler chickens. PLoS One, 20(4):e0320666. [reference] H9N2 cause significant economic losses, particularly during co-infections. Study was carried out to evaluate a new challenge model using cold stress in commercial broilers infected with two Moroccan H9N2 viruses isolated in 2016 and 2022. Results showed that cold stress exacerbated H9N2 clinical signs; gross and microscopic lesions, induced by the virus primarily in the respiratory tract, peaked at 5 dpi and significantly decreased at 15 dpi, viral shedding persisting beyond 11 dpi in both groups. A clear clinical difference among the two isolates; A/chicken/Morocco/178-2/2022(H9N2) showed a significant increase in virulence compared to the firstly isolate A/chicken/Morocco/SF1/ 2016(H9N2).

Diaby M, Bangoura ST, Hounmenou CG, Kadio KJO, Touré AB, Bereté K, Bongono EF, Sidibé S, Delamou A, Camara A, Keita AK, Touré A. 2025. Exploratory analysis of poultry workers' knowledge and practices Regarding highly pathogenic avian influenza in Guinea. PLoS One, 20(3):e0320890. [reference] In 2022-2023, Guinea experienced a major avian influenza epizootic, leading to significant economic losses and increasing the risk of transmission to humans. This study aimed to assess knowledge and practices related to avian influenza among poultry workers in Guinea. A cross-sectional study was conducted between November and December 2023 on poultry farms in Coyah and Forecariah, Guinea prefectures. Overall, the knowledge of avian influenza was relatively low among poultry workers, and the majority (68.4%) demonstrated poor practices on poultry farms. These findings suggest the need for a targeted strategy to prevent the risk of virus transmission to humans, including awareness-raising, training, and providing personal protective equipment.

El-Shesheny R, Gomaa M, Sayes ME, Kamel MN, Taweel AE, Kutkat O, GabAllah M, et al. 2025. Emergence of a novel reassortant highly pathogenic avian influenza clade 2.3.4.4b A(H5N2) Virus, 2024. Emerg Microbes Infect, 14(1):2455601. [reference] Reassortant highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N2) clade 2.3.4.4.b viruses were detected from ducks and environmental samples in Egypt, June 2024. Genomic and phylogenetic analyses revealed a novel genotype produced by the reassortment of an A(H5N1) clade 2.3.3.4b virus with an A(H9N2) G1-like virus

Mahmoud SH, Khattab MS, Yehia N, Zanaty A, Arafa AES, Khalil AA. 2025. Pathogenicity of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A/H5Nx Viruses in Avian and Murine Models. Pathogens, 14(2):149. [reference] We investigated the pathogenic characteristics of the newly emerged H5N1/2022 and H5N8/2022 of clade 2.3.4.4b compared to the previously circulating H5N1/2016 of clade 2.2.1.2 in Egypt using both avian and murine models. All strains demonstrated a 100% mortality in chickens after intranasal inoculation, while the H5N8/2022 strain showing significantly higher viral shedding. In the mouse model, H5N1/2016 infection resulted in an 80% mortality rate with significant weight loss and virus replication in organs. In contrast, H5N8/2022 and H5N1/2022 had 60% and 40% mortality rates, respectively.

El-Shesheny, R., Gomaa, M., Sayes, M.E., Kamel, M.N., Taweel, A.E., Kutkat, O., GabAllah, M., et al. 2025. Emergence of a novel reassortant highly pathogenic avian influenza clade 2.3.4.4b A(H5N2) Virus, 2024. Emerg Microbes Infect, 14(1):2455601. [reference]

Jallow, M.M., Diagne, M.M., Ndione, M.H.D., Barry, M.A., Ndiaye, N.K., Kiori, D.E., Mendy, M.P., et al. 2025. Genetic and Molecular Characterization of Avian Influenza A(H9N2) Viruses from Live Bird Markets (LBM) in Senegal. Viruses, 17(1):73. [reference]

Swayne, D.E., Sims, L.D., Brown, I., Harder, T., Stegeman, A., Abolnik, C., Delgado, M., et al. 2024. Strategic challenges in the global control of high pathogenicity avian influenza. Rev Sci Tech, Special Edition:89-102. [reference]

Chongo, I., Tivane, A., Monteiro, V., Inlamea, O., Maholela, P., Nhanombe, I., Ibraimo, S., et al. 2024. Outcomes from a Zoonotic Disease Prioritization workshop using One Health approach in Mozambique, 2018 to 2023. One Health Outlook, 6(1):20. [reference]

Saad, N., Esaki, M., Kojima, I., Khalil, A.M., Osuga, S., Shahein, M.A., Okuya, K., Ozawa, M. & Alhatlani, B.Y. 2024. Phylogenetic Characterization of Novel Reassortant 2.3.4.4b H5N8 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Viruses Isolated from Domestic Ducks in Egypt During the Winter Season 2021-2022. Viruses, 16(11):1655. [reference]

Elsobky, Y., Eltholth, M., Abdalla, E., Eissa, N., Hadad, G., Nayel, M., Salama, A., et al. 2024. Spatio-temporal dynamics and risk cluster analysis of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) in poultry: Advancing outbreak management through customized regional strategies in Egypt. Open Vet J, 14(11):2911-2923. [reference]

Shittu, I., Silva, D., Oguzie, J.U., Marushchak, L.V., Olinger, G.G., Lednicky, J.A., Trujillo-Vargas, C.M., Schneider, N.E., Hao, H. & Gray, G.C. 2024. A One Health Investigation into H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus Epizootics on Two Dairy Farms. Clin Infect Dis, 2024 Dec 10:ciae576. [reference]

Sanogo, I.N., Fusade-Boyer, M., Molia, S., Koita, O.A., Camus, C. & Ducatez, M.F. 2024. Identification of risk areas for avian influenza outbreaks in domestic poultry in Mali using the GIS-MCDA approach. Epidemiology and Infection, 152: e45. [reference]

Elhusseiny, M.H., Elsayed, M.M., Mady, W.H., Mahana, O., Bakry, N.R., Abdelaziz, O., Arafa, A., et al. 2024. Genetic features of avian influenza (A/H5N8) clade 2.3.4.4b isolated from quail in Egypt. Virus Research, 350:199482. [reference]

Akanbi, O.B., Alaka, O.O., Olaifa, O.S., Meseko, C.A., Inuwa, B., Ohore, O.G., Tijani, M., et al. 2024. Pathology and molecular detection of influenza A subtype H9N2 virus in commercial poultry in Nigeria. Open Veterinary Journal, 14(9):2381–2391. [reference]

Aborode, A.T., Adesola, R.O., Scott, G.Y., & Morales Ruiz, P. 2024. Preparedness is key in the face of avian influenza uncertainty. New Microbes and New Infections, 62:101505. [reference]

Tweneboah, A.A., Johnson, S.A.M., Amponsah, P.M., Asare, D.A. & Emikpe B.O. 2024. Seroprevalence of Avian Influenza in Guinea Fowls in Some Districts in the Upper East Region of Ghana. Vet Med Sci, 10(6):e70106. [reference]

Moatasim, Y., Aboulhoda, B.E., Gomaa, M., El Taweel, A., Kutkat, O., Kamel, M.N., El Sayes, M., et al. 2024. Genetic and pathogenic potential of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 viruses from live bird markets in Egypt in avian and mammalian models. PLoS One, 19(10):e0312134. [reference]

Munyua, P., Osoro, E., Jones, J., Njogu, G., Yang, G., Hunsperger, E., Szablewski, C.M., et al. 2024. Characterization of Avian Influenza Viruses Detected in Kenyan Live Bird Markets and Wild Bird Habitats Reveal Genetically Diverse Subtypes and High Proportion of A(H9N2), 2018-2020. Viruses, 16(9):1417. [reference]

Koopmans, M.P.G., Behravesh, C. B., Cunningham, A.A., Adisasmito, W.B., Almuhairi, S., Bilivogui, P., Bukachi, S.A., Casas, N., Becerra, N. C., Charron, D.F., Chaudhary, A., Zanella, J.R.C., Dar, O., Debnath, N., Dungu, B., Farag, E., Gao, G.F., Khaitsa, M., Machalaba, C., Mackenzie, J.S., Markotter, W., Mettenleiter, T.C., Morand, S., Smolenskiy, V., Zhou, L., Hayman, D.T.S. & One Health High-Level Expert Panel. 2024. The panzootic spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 sublineage 2.3.4.4b: a critical appraisal of One Health preparedness and prevention. The Lancet Infect Dis, 9:S1473-3099(24)00438-9. [reference].

Kutkat, O., Gomaa, M., Moatasim, Y., El Taweel, A., Kamel, M.N., El Sayes, M., GabAllah, M., Kandeil, A., McKenzie, P.P., Webby, R.J., Kayali, G., Ali, M.A. & El-Shesheny, R. 2024. Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b in wild rats in Egypt during 2023. Emerg Microbes Infect, 13(1):2396874. [reference].

Ammali, N., Kara, R., Guetarni, D. & Chebloune, Y. 2024. Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 and H5N1 outbreaks in Algerian avian livestock production. Comparative Immunology Microbiology and Infectious Disease, 111:102202. [reference].

Bi, Y., Yang, J., Wang L., Ran, L. & Gao, G. F. 2024. Ecology and evolution of avian influenza viruses. Current Biology, 34 (15):R716-R721. [reference].

Abolnik, C., Roberts, L. C., Strydom, C., Snyman, A., & Roberts, D. G. 2024. Outbreaks of H5N1 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza in South Africa in 2023 Were Caused by Two Distinct Sub-Genotypes of Clade 2.3.4.4b Viruses. Viruses, 16(6):896.  [reference]

Adesola, R.O., Onoja, B.A., Adamu, A.M., Agbaje, S.T., Abdulazeez, M.D., Akinsulie, O.C., Bakre, A. & Adegboye, O.A. 2024. Molecular epidemiology and genetic evolution of avian influenza H5N1 subtype in Nigeria, 2006 to 2021. Virus Genes, 2024 Jun 19.  [reference]

Mercy, K., Salyer, S.J., Mankga, C., Hedberg, C., Zondo, P., Kebede, Y. 2024. Establishing an early warning event management system at Africa CDC. PLOS Digit Health, 3(7):e0000546.  [reference]

Oguzie, J.U., Marushchak, L.V., Shittu, I., Lednicky, J.A., Miller, A.L., Hao, H., Nelson, M.I. & Gray, G.C. 2024. Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus among Dairy Cattle, Texas, USA. Emerging Infectious Diseases, 30(7).  [ reference]

Bedair, N.M., Sakr, M.A., Mourad, A., Eissa, N., Mostafa, A. & Khamiss, O. 2024. Molecular characterization of the whole genome of H9N2 avian influenza virus isolated from Egyptian poultry farms. Archives of Virology, 169(5): 99. [reference]

Kutkat, O., Gomaa, M., Aboulhoda, B.E., Moatasim, Y., El Taweel, A., Kamel, M.N., El Sayes, M., et al. 2024. Genetic and virological characteristics of a reassortant avian influenza A H6N1 virus isolated from wild birds at a live-bird market in Egypt. Archives of Virology, 169(5): 95. [reference]

Olawuyi, K., Orole, O., Meseko, C., Monne, I., Shittu, I., Bianca, Z., Fusaro, A., et al. 2024. Detection of clade 2.3.4.4 highly pathogenic avian influenza H5 viruses in healthy wild birds in the Hadeji-Nguru wetland, Nigeria 2022. Influenza Other Respiratory Viruses, 18(2): e13254. [reference]

Fusaro, A., Zecchin, B., Giussani, E., Palumbo, E., Agüero-García, M., Bachofen, C., Bálint, Á., et al. 2024. High pathogenic avian influenza A(H5) viruses of clade 2.3.4.4b in Europe – why trends of virus evolution are more difficult to predict. Virus Evolution, veae027. [reference]

Li, Y., An, Q., Sun, Z., Gao, X. & Wang, H. 2024. Multifaceted analysis of temporal and spatial distribution and risk factors of global poultry HPAI-H5N1, 2005-2023. Animal, 18(3):101085. [reference]

Miller, L.N., Saadawi, W.K., Hamouda, W.B., Elgari, A.S., Abdulkarim, E.A., Lmrabet, A.M.M., Elbukhmari, A.E., et al. 2024. Assessing One Health capacities for transboundary zoonotic diseases at the Libya-Tunisia border. One Health Outlook, 6(1):3. [reference]

Si, Y., Skidmore, A. K., Wang, T., de Boer, W. F., Debba, P., Toxopeus, A. G., Li, L., & Prins, H. H. 2009. Spatio-temporal dynamics of global H5N1 outbreaks match bird migration patterns. Geospatial Health, 4(1):65–78. [reference]

Olawuyi, K., Orole, O., Meseko, C., Monne, I., Shittu, I., Bianca, Z., Fusaro, A., et al. 2024. The Public Health Importance and Management of Infectious Poultry Diseases in Smallholder Systems in Africa. Influenza Other Respir Viruses, 18(2):e13254. [reference]

Monjane, I. V. A., Djedje, H., Tamele, E., Nhabomba, V., Tivane, A. R., Massicame, Z. E., Arone, D. M., Pastori, A., Bortolami, A., Monne, I., Woma, T., Lamien, C. E. & Dundon, W. G. 2024. H7N6 highly pathogenic avian influenza in Mozambique, 2023. Emerging Microbes & Infections, 13, (1). [reference]

Sanogo, I.N., Guinat, C., Dellicour, S., Diakité, M.A., Niang, M., Koita, O.A., Camus, C. & Ducatez, M. 2024. Genetic insights of H9N2 avian influenza viruses circulating in Mali and phylogeographic patterns in Northern and Western Africa. Virus Evolution, 10(1):veae011. [reference]

Glazunova, A., Krasnova, E., Bespalova, T., Sevskikh, T., Lunina, D., Titov, I., Sindryakova, I. & Blokhin, A. 2024. A highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4 detected in Samara Oblast, Russian Federation. Front Vet Sci, 11 – 2024. [reference]

Grace, D., Knight-Jones, T. J., Melaku, A., Alders, R. & Jemberu, W. T. 2024. The Public Health Importance and Management of Infectious Poultry Diseases in Smallholder Systems in Africa. Foods, 13(3), 411. [reference]

Kenmoe, S., Takuissu, G.R., Ebogo-Belobo, J.T., Kengne-Ndé, C., Mbaga, D.S., Bowo-Ngandji, A. & Ondigui Ndzie, J.L. et al. 2024. A systematic review of influenza virus in water environments across human, poultry, and wild bird habitats. Water Res X, 22:100210. [reference]

Roberts, L.C., Abernethy, D., Roberts, D.G., Ludynia, K., O'Kennedy, M.M., Abolnik, C. 2023. Vaccination of African penguins (Spheniscus demersus) against high-pathogenicity avian influenza.Vet Rec, e3616. [reference]

Abolnik, C. 2023. Spillover of an endemic avian Influenza H6N2 chicken lineage to ostriches and reassortment with clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 high pathogenicity viruses in chickens. Vet Res Commun. [reference]

Fagrach, A., Arbani, O., Karroute, O., El-Ftouhy, F.Z., Kichou, F., Bouslikhane, M., Fellahi, S. 2023. Prevalence of major infectious diseases in backyard chickens from rural markets in Morocco. Vet World, 16(9):1897-1906. [reference]

Meseko, C., Ameji, N.O., Kumar, B. & Culhane, M. 2023. Rational approach to vaccination against highly pathogenic avian influenza in Nigeria: a scientific perspective and global best practice. Arch Virol, 168(10):263. [reference]

Agha, A.S.K., Benlashehr, I., Naffati, K.M., Bshina, S.A. & Khashkhosha, A.A. 2023. Correlation of avian influenzaH9N2 with high mortality in broiler flocks in the southwest of Tripoli, Libya. Open Vet J, 13(6):715-722. [reference].

Bongono, E.F., Kaba, L., Camara, A., Touré, A., Ngoma, M.P., Yanogo, P.K., Kanyala, E. & SOW A. 2023. Évaluation de la biosécurité et facteurs associés à l'influenza aviaire dans les fermes avicoles de Coyah, Guinée, 2019-2020. Med Trop Sante Int. 2023 3(2):25. [reference].

Isibor, P.O., Onwaeze, O.O., Kayode-Edwards, I.I., Agbontaen, D.O., Ifebem-Ezima, A.M., Bilewu, O., Onuselogu, C., Akinniyi, A.P., Obafemi, Y.D. & Oniha, M.I. 2023. Investigating and combatting the key drivers of viral zoonoses in Africa: an analysis of eight epidemics. Braz J Biol, 84:e270857. [reference]

Lebarbenchon, C., Boucher, S., Feare, C., Dietrich, M., Larose, C., Humeau, L., Le Corre, M. & Jaeger, A. 2023. Migratory patterns of two major influenza virus host species on tropical islands. R Soc Open Sci, 10(10):230600. [reference]

Jbenyeni, A., Croville, G., Cazaban, C. & Guérin, J.L. 2023. Predominance of low pathogenic avian influenza virus H9N2 in the respiratory co-infections in broilers in Tunisia: a longitudinal field study, 2018-2020. Vet Res, 54(1):88. [reference]

Alhaji, N.B., Adeiza, A.M., Godwin, E.A., Haruna, A.E., Aliyu, M.B. & Odetokun, I.A. 2023. An assessment of the highly pathogenic avian influenza resurgence at human-poultry-environment interface in North-central Nigeria: Sociocultural determinants and One Health implications. One health, 16:100574 [reference]

Miller, LmNm, Elmselati, H., Fogarty, A.S., Farhat, M.E., Standley, C.J., Abuabaid, H.M. & Zorgani, A. 2023. Using One Health assessments to leverage endemic disease frameworks for emerging zoonotic disease threats in Libya. PLOS Glob Public Health, 3(7):e0002005 [reference]

Abolnik, C., Phiri, T., Peyrot, B., de Beer, R., Snyman, A., Roberts, D., Ludynia, K. et al. 2023. The Molecular Epidemiology of Clade 2.3.4.4B H5N1 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza in Southern Africa, 2021–2022. Viruses, 15(6):1383. [reference]

Meseko, C., Milani, A., Inuwa, B., Chinyere, C., Shittu, I., Ahmed, J., Giussani, E. et al. 2023. The Evolution of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (H5) in Poultry in Nigeria, 2021–2022. Viruses,15:1387. [reference]

Nma Bida Alhaji, Abdulrahman Musa Adeiza, Enid Abutu Godwin, Aliyu Evuti Haruna, Mohammed Baba Aliyu and Ismail Ayoade Odetokun. 2023. An assessment of the highly pathogenic avian influenza resurgence at human-poultry-environment interface in North-central Nigeria: Sociocultural determinants and One Health implications. One Health, 16:100574. [reference]

Lo, F.T., Zecchin, B., Diallo, A.A., Racky, O., Tassoni, L., Diop, A., Diouf, M., Diouf, M., Samb, Y.N., Pastori, A., Gobbo, F., Ellero, F., Diop, M., Lo, M.M., Diouf, M.N., Fall, M., Ndiaye, A.A., Gaye, A.M., Badiane, M., Lo, M., Youm, B.N., Ndao, I., Niaga, M., Terregino, C., Diop, B., Ndiaye, Y., Angot, A., Seck, I., Niang, M., Soumare, B., Fusaro, A. & Monne, I. 2022. Intercontinental Spread of Eurasian Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) to Senegal. Emerg Infect Dis. 28(1):234-237. [reference]

Panzarin, V., Marciano, S., Fortin, A., Brian, I., D'Amico, V., Gobbo, F., Bonfante, F., Palumbo, E., Sakoda, Y., Le, K.T., Chum D.H., Shittu, I., Meseko, C., Haido, A.M., Odoom, T., Diouf, M.N., Djegui, F., Steensels, M., Terregino, C. & Monne, I. 2022. Redesign and Validation of a Real-Time RT-PCR to Improve Surveillance for Avian Influenza Viruses of the H9 Subtype. Viruses. 14(6):1263. [reference]

 

FAO's support to countries or by country

Global level 2024
  • FAO organized a webinar "Update for FAO Members on the Avian Influenza Situation and the Pandemic Fund (3rd call)" on 17 March. [link]
  • GF-TADs organized a webinar entitled "Release of the Global Strategy for the Prevention and Control of High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (2024–2033)". [link]
  • FAO and WOAH released the Global strategy for the prevention and control of high pathogenicity avian influenza (2024–2033) - Achieving sustainable, resilient poultry production systems. [link]
  • FAO published the Recommendations for the surveillance of influenza A(H5N1) in cattle, with broader application to other farmed mammals. [link]
  • FAO/WHO/WOAH released an "Updated joint FAO/WHO/WOAH public health assessment of recent influenza A(H5) virus events in animals and people". [link]
  • FAO Virtual Learning Centres are collaborating with the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (FLI) to update the existing avian influenza course with elements of the increasing incidents of HPAIV infections in mammals.
  • OFFLU (WOAH/FAO Network of Expertise on Animal Influenza) released OFFLU summary report from the WHO vaccine composition meeting [link], avian data package for zoonotic influenza [link] and swine influenza report. [link]
  • OFFLU has provided with information on influenza in animals and participated in the WHO Information Meeting on the Composition of Influenza Virus Vaccines for Use in the 2025 Southern Hemisphere Influenza Season which took place this week [ link, recording of the Information Meeting]
Regional level
  • The 12th Meeting of the Regional Steering Committee (RSC12) of the GF-TADs for Africa has been held in Mbabane, Eswatini; FAO presented the Revision of the HPAI Global Strategy on DAY2 during Session 5. Emerging issues, requiring the attention of the GF-TADs RSC. [link]
  • FAO Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD) for Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) collaborated with AU-IBAR and multiple regional stakeholders to draft a 10-module curriculum aimed at strengthening digital One Health competencies and improve One Health and zoonosis data sharing across sectors.
  • Under a FAO technical cooperation programme project “Strengthening the prevention and control of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) epizootics in four West African countries” (TCP/SFW/4002), activities have been conducted in Cape Verde, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Togo. A risk-based assessment of the evolution of avian influenza over the last five years (2019-2023) in West Africa has been conducted, to update the regional HPAI prevention and control strategy, including enhancement of wildlife surveillance. Support has been provided to conduct HPAI risk assessments at country level and mapping along the poultry value chain. To strengthen laboratory capacity for rapid diagnosis and identification of HPAI virus strains, an on-site training was conducted for laboratory personnel in the Gambia, and discussions are also ongoing to train laboratory personnel of Cape Verde and Guinea-Bissau at the Laboratoire National de l'élevage et de recherches vétérinaires (LNERV) in Dakar, Senegal. Procurement to equip the veterinary laboratories of the four countries with kits and reagents for rapid diagnosis of HPAI, laboratory consumables, sampling and field equipment/ consumables and personal protective equipment (PPE) are in progress.
National level

Burkina Faso:

  • To strengthen intersectoral collaboration and prepare for the management of health crises, the members of the National One Health Platform for the Centre-North region have been officially designated. This will operationalize One Health Platform at all levels in the country, strengthen the coordination of health - including HPAI - emergencies.
  • As part of the drive to step up epidemiological surveillance of animal and zoonotic diseases, water and forestry officers have received training on capturing wildlife (including wild birds), collection of biological specimens from them, including HPAI suspected specimens. Veterinary border control officers have been trained on inspection of animals, including poultry and animal products, at entry and exit points to/from Burkina Faso.

Cabo Verde:

  • Under the subregional TCP project, a national training workshop on HPAI recognition, early warning, sample collection, handling, shipping and biosecurity for field agents was successfully conducted in Praia, Cape Verde, from 12 to 15 December 2024, to strengthen capacities for passive HPAI surveillance. With the support of ECTAD WCA and 26 field personnel were trained.
  • A risk assessment along the poultry value chain is ongoing.
  • A regional training workshop on good emergency management practice (GEMP) has been conducted in Praia from 10 to 13 March 2025 in Portuguese, aiming to strengthen HPAI emergency management capabilities and reinforce with human resources trained in animal health emergency management in Cape Verde and Guinea-Bissau.

Cameroon:

  • The National Veterinary Laboratory (LANAVET) has conducted an active surveillance in 2024 in the North, Far North and West regions, with the support of ECTAD Cameroon. A total of 419 samples were collected from 6 divisions in West region.

Ethiopia:

  • The Animal Health Institute (AHI) tested cloacal and tracheal swab samples from domestic chickens (n=420) and faecal droplets from migratory and wild birds (n=1660) collected in February and March for avian influenza and Newcastle disease using PCR techniques. All samples proved negative for avian influenza and Newcastle disease viruses. AHI also tested 200 fresh faecal droplets pooled samples acquired from private Ethio-Chicken Poultry farms for avian influenza, and all tested negative. The purpose is to obtain a certificate free from avian influenza.
  • A technical team of experts from the Animal Health Institute (AHI) and the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) conducted a field mission as a One Health approach to collect epidemiological and biological samples from domestic chickens, migratory and wild birds. The sampling period was from January to February 2025, and 2080 swabs were collected. Cloacal and tracheal swab samples from domestic chickens and faecal droplets from migratory and wild birds. The samples were collected from poultry farms and water bodies in Eastern Ethiopia (from Bishoftu to Hawassa). The laboratory tests are on progress. Some migratory and wild birds were closely observed, and no avian influenza symptoms were recorded during the assessment period.

Gambia:

  • An on-site training on avian influenza diagnosis for technical personnel of the central veterinary laboratory of Banjul was conducted under the subregional TCP project from 8 to 14 August 2024.
  • The Department of Livestock Services, in collaboration with FAO, conducted a comprehensive nationwide public sensitization and awareness campaign. The campaign informed rural communities about HPAI, the need to report suspected incidents, and biosecurity measures that are essential to safeguarding public health, improving poultry production, and protecting livelihoods.

Ghana:

  • FAO published a technical brief on “An evidence-based approach towards improving poultry biosecurity in Ashaiman Municipal District”. This brief summarizes the main challenges for improving poultry production in Ashaiman, a district in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana that has been affected by avian influenza, and the way forward. [link]
  • Event Mobile App (EMA-i+) has been rolled out by FAO Ghana and the Veterinary Services Directorate; 96 field officers have been trained for real-time animal disease reporting through mobile phone-based system to detect and respond to disease outbreaks faster. [link]

Guinea:

  • FAO Guinea has trained animal health staff and N'zérékoré transport unions on the mechanism for the secure transport of animal biological samples in order to enhance the skills of those involved in animal and zoonotic disease surveillance.

Guinea-Bissau:

  • A national training workshop covering training covering disease recognition, biosecurity, sample collection and shipping and surveillance was also organized in Guinea-Bissau from 18 to 20 February 2025 under the subregional TCP project supported by FAO Sub-Regional Office for West Africa (SFW), 26 people from the veterinary services (central and decentralized), wildlife sector and public health sector attended.

Kenya:

  • Through the Fleming Fund project, FAO Kenya is supporting small-scale poultry farmers via Farmer Field Schools (FFS) to improve practices in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) management, biosecurity, and broiler production. These schools provide hands-on training that equips farmers with practical skills in prudent antimicrobial use, biosecurity, and enhanced broiler management. By strengthening these areas, FFS indirectly contributes to building resilience against disease threats such as HPAI, supporting sustainable and safer poultry farming in Kenya.

Liberia:

  • PCR reagent optimization and testing of the historical samples is ongoing as part of the mentorship/training of 10 laboratory staff on PCR. The team have also gone to the field to collect more samples. Two meetings held with the Ministry of Agriculture to enhance active surveillance.

Madagascar:

  • FAO Madagascar has organized two series of training courses on the various sampling techniques for diagnosis of major zoonotic diseases including HPAI and rabies. SOPs for the collection, packaging and safe transport of samples have been developed as part of the transport and transfer system for animal samples, supported by FAO.

Malawi:

  • A report on risk assessment of HPAI introduction and spread in Malawi is being drafted.

Mali:

  • To maintain the good quality level of analysis results, FAO provided training 14 laboratory technicians (including 4 women) on quality management within veterinary laboratories in accordance with the 2017 ISO 17025 guidelines.

Niger:

  • In Niger, an H5N1 HPAI outbreak in a backyard flock in Niamey was confirmed on 6 February 2025 by LABOCEL (Laboratoire Central de l'Élevage). Of the 57 birds (guinea fowls and chickens), 4 died and the rest was depopulated.

Nigeria:

  • The Federal Government reported 18 H5N1 HPAI outbreaks occurred between 7 December 2024 and 12 February 2025 in Kano State (Gwale, Gusau, Kabo, Nassaraw, Ungogo LGAs [Local Government Area]), Katsina State (Katsina LGA, in backyard setting), Plateau State (Bassa and Jos North LGAs, in farms) and Federal Capital Territory (Bwari LGA) and Zamfara State (Chikun LGA) [link]. Another outbreak in Rivers State is suspected. FAO supported the Ministry of Livestock Development deploying a field mission to evaluate situation and take action to control the outbreak and stop the spread of the disease. After a field visit in February 2025 led by ECTAD team, the State Government has conducted awareness and sensitisation exercise. More actions are needed specifically on application of biosecurity and control measures. Additional investigations are to evaluate the magnitude of the outbreak spread.
  • FAO ECTAD, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, conducted a national stakeholder workshop on HPAI control and prevention. The key recommendations include ensuring National Veterinary Research Institute's central role in communicating needs to the Ministry for partner support; conducting pilot vaccinations on three breeder farms in different geopolitical locations, adhering to established guidelines and protocols; and promoting biosecurity measures by encouraging strict farm sanitation, quarantine and controlled bird movement to control HPAI.

Senegal:

  • FAO ECTAD Senegal supported the Ministry of Livestock to conduct a study to update the nine standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to HPAI detection, sampling and outbreak management following the after-action review recommendations. The updated versions are available awaiting a national validation workshop setting to get the final version.

Sierra Leone:

  • FAO ECTAD Sierra Leone in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) has established a sample referral system to facilitate the movement of samples from the field to the Central Veterinary Laboratory (CVL). Operationalisation of the referral system involved establishment of sample collection centres in strategic sites in five districts of Bo, Western Area, Port Loko, Kenema and Koinadugu and equipped them with Dry Shippers for the transportation of samples to CVL. Therefore, livestock farmers and livestock personnel have easy access to submit samples including suspected samples for HPAI.

Somalia:

  • FAO is supporting the Ministry of Livestock, Forestry, and Range's Epidemiology Data Management Units (EDMUs) to improve the collection, management, and sharing of disease surveillance data.

Togo:

  • Togo experienced four new outbreaks of avian influenza between February and March, confirmed by the central veterinary laboratory in Lomé. The FAO is supporting the country in managing and controlling these new outbreaks.
  • The FAO is currently implementing In-Service Applied Veterinary Epidemiology Training (ISAVET) through the training of an initial cohort of 20 field epidemiologists from the ministries responsible for livestock and the environment. 13 national trainers and 13 national mentors have also been trained in the ISAVET programme.
  • Training of 150 new community animal health workers and 50 para-veterinary professionals was conducted on early warning and community animal health; along with 145 smartphones, some IT equipment have been purchased for veterinary and wildlife services to improve animal disease surveillance.

Uganda:

  • To strengthen early warning systems for HPAI, FAO is supporting the National Animal Disease Diagnostic and Epidemiology Centre (NADDEC) of the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries. This support includes active surveillance in the Lake Victoria Epizone, focusing on poultry value chains and environmental sampling at sites where wild birds congregate.

United Republic of Tanzania:

  • Through the Fleming Fund project, FAO Tanzania is supporting hands-on training of small-scale poultry farmers via Farmer Field Schools (FFS) approach focusing on improving farm biosecurity measures, proper feeding and timely vaccinations to avert diseases and subsequently reducing the need to use antimicrobials in attempt to reduce the emergence and transmission of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Recently (March 2025), 182 small scale broiler farmers who had successfully implemented three cycles of FFS training were graduated. By strengthening these areas of interventions, FFS indirectly contributes to building resilience against disease threats such as HPAI, supporting sustainable and safer poultry farming.

Zambia: 

  • Active surveillance was conducted from 1st January to the 4th of February 2025, during which 600 samples were collected from layer chickens (aged 22-75 weeks) on a breeder farm in Lusaka, Central ,  Copperbelt and Southern Provinces. All samples tested Negative for M, H5, and H7 genes by PCR at the Central Veterinary Research Institute in Lusaka.

Zimbabwe:

  • To prevent the incidence and spread of major poultry diseases on farms, FAO Zimbabwe, with support from the Fleming Fund and Multi-partner Trust Fund projects, has been implementing Broiler Farmer Field Schools (FFS) in eight districts at 16 field sites. This approach is now being expanded to four additional districts and eight new sites. This comprehensive and proactive approach emphasizes core biosecurity measures, disease prevention practices, and focused efforts for the rationale use of antimicrobials, promoting healthier, more resilient poultry farming systems.

Important links

ECTAD ESA

  • Despite no HPAI events reported in the region FAO-ECTAD continues to support annual Proficiency testing schemes for AIV since 2018 through USAID funded GHSA program at national and sub-national level in Eastern Africa (Ethiopia Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda) as well as supporting procurement of reagents (molecular supplies-primers, probes, PCR kits, extraction kits) and consumables in support of diagnostic testing and to enhance preparedness.

ECTAD WCA

  • FAO ECTAD WCA organized a regional training on Shipment of Infectious Substances from 26 to 28 July 2023 with a trainer from WHO. A total of 11 participants from 7 francophone countries successfully completed the training and were certified to ship infectious substances by air.
  • FAO ECTAD WCA supported Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Togo in managing domestic and wild bird mortality events in 2022 due to H5 HPAI including the provisions of laboratory reagents, consumables and PPE for field activities, as well as at-risk countries to address the situation as a regional coordination effort.
  • In 2023, the regional project OSRO/GLO/501/USA “Emergency assistance for prevention and control of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in selected Countries in West Africa” funded by USAID continues to enhance strengthening the capabilities of veterinary services to prevent and sustainably control HPAI within the region with a focus on Benin, the Gambia and Togo.
  • FAO ECTAD WCA conducted backstopping missions: to Benin and Togo in from 9 to 13 May 2023 to provide follow up support also for the implementation of the HPAI project, assessed the readiness, reviewed planned activities, visited the veterinary laboratory of Lomé and provided recommendations to improve biosafety/biosecurity measures and working environment; and to the Gambia from 22 to 26 May 2023 to provide technical support in the HPAI project implementation, reviewed additional response needs for the recent HPAI outbreak and handed over emergency supplies (rapid test kits, disinfectants, personal protective equipment [PPE]) from the USAID funded Stockpile Project to the Department of Livestock Services of the Ministry of Agriculture.

Burkina Faso:

  • From 25 to 27 June 2023, a meeting was held in Koudougou to raise awareness among small-scale poultry farmers on disease recognition and their responsibility on early detection of mortality. Forty-five poultry producers attended the session. Before the meeting, a ToT was organized and intended to field veterinary agents who will cascade the training in their respective regions. The objective is to get 650 poultry producers sensitized on HPAI and biosecurity.
  • The TCP/BKF/3901 project has so far: trained 175 staff on HPAI epidemiological surveillance; developed training modules on good poultry farming practices, hygiene and biosecurity measures on farms and trained 46 trainers; the trainers conducted sensitization of 300 model poultry farmers from 10 regions of Burkina. The project also provided training for 30 communicators and journalists of the press (print and audiovisual) on HPAI.

Ethiopia:

  • Diseases due to the absence or poor biosecurity account for more than 56% of annual mortality in the poultry sector in Ethiopia, discouraging farmers from expanding their production. FAO in collaboration with the Ethiopian Agricultural Research Institute has prepared a biosecurity brochure covering three key areas - conceptual, structural, and operational biosecurity measures. The brochure provides guidance to small and medium commercial poultry farms on implementing effective biosecurity measures for increased productivity, and a more sustainable and profitable industry, and is aimed to be used by Farmers Field School (FFS).
  • FAO ECTAD Ethiopia, in collaboration with the Ethiopian agricultural research institute, implemented a pilot study in four municipalities to assess their current biosecurity practices and identify gaps, recommend best practices, assess the adoption by farms, and evaluate their effects on disease incidence/prevalence and farm productivity/profitability. The study was conducted on 40 poultry farms between July 2022 and March 2023, and the findings have been validated to suggest best practices to some poultry farms included in this study. The study will generate the evidence for poultry farm biosecurity which will inform commercial poultry farms the value of best practices, raise awareness and to scale up good practices along the poultry value chain, and promote infection prevention through biosecurity practices.

Gabon:

  • An FAO Emergency Management Centre (EMC) emergency field mission was conducted in Gabon from 4 to 8 July 2022 in response to the recent H5N1 HPAI outbreaks reported in Estuaire Province. The FAO-EMC team collaborated with the General Directorate of Livestock to investigate affected farms, assess the emergency response capacity, identify the current gaps in the animal health surveillance system, including the capacity of the Central Veterinary Laboratory of Libreville for the diagnosis of priority diseases, and develop tailored recommendations. The outbreak has been managed and no additional outbreaks have been reported since mid-May 2022.

Ghana:

  • FAO with support from USAID organized a one-day sensitization workshop in three regions in Ghana (Ashanti, Bono and Bono East) in January 2023 to prevent zoonoses resulting from handling, trade and consumption of bushmeat [link]

Liberia

  • In December 2022, FAO-ECTAD Liberia supported the Ministry of agriculture to investigate suspected Outbreaks of HPAI in Nimba; all samples tested negative for HPAI.

Mali:

  • In 2022, FAO ECTAD Mali supported Strengthen biosecurity practices at farm levels targeting 35 farmers including 8 women.

Niger:

  • FAO ECTAD Niger supported the development of a Biosafety/Biosecurity guide (2022) for actors in the dairy, meat and poultry value chains in Niger.  

Nigeria:

  • FAO ECTAD Nigeria, in collaboration with ECOWAS and AU-IBAR, supported risk assessment for HPAI spread in the country in 2022. A debriefing session and an After-Action Review (AAR) on the SOP used for the mission were held virtually on 26 May and 24 July respectively, to the latter the national coordinator and epi-expert participated from ECTAD Senegal.

Senegal:

  • FAO ECTAD Senegal assisted FAO Emergency Management Center (EMC-AH) expert mission visiting Saint-Louis as a part of support to control HPAI outbreaks in May 2023.
  • FAO ECTAD Senegal trained 32 personnels from the Ministries of Environment and Livestock on sampling techniques for wild birds in January and February 2023.

Sierra Leone:

  • In 2022, when neighbouring Guinea reported HPAI outbreaks, FAO ECTAD Sierra Leone supported the Ministry of Agriculture and Food security to undertake active search for HPAI in Koinadugu, Karene, Pujehun and Kambia districts adjacent to infected /high risk areas in Guinea collected 161 samples (serum and swabs) and tested at the Central Veterinary Laboratory using ELISA and PCR. All samples tested negative for H5.
  • In collaboration with FAO ECTAD Guinea, FAO ECTAD Sierra Leone provided timely updates on HPAI status in Guinea during weekly One Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Group meetings which helped the Government to follow on the evolution of the outbreak and to assess potential threats of introduction of HPAI in Sierra Leone. This support complemented Government efforts to prevent HPAI incursions into the country.
Next issue: 8 May 2025
The disease situation updates are produced by the FAO Emergency Prevention System for Animal Health (EMPRES-AH) as part of its mission to increase global disease intelligence.
Disclaimer

Information provided herein is current as of the date of issue. Information added or changed since the last Sub-Saharan HPAI situation update appears in orange. For poultry cases with unknown onset dates, reporting dates were used instead. FAO compiles information communicated by field officers on the ground in affected countries, from regional offices, and from the 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.

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