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Sub-Saharan Africa HPAI situation update

9 July 2026, 08:30 hours; Rome

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. H5N1: Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire*, Réunion (France), Gambia, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Lesotho, Mali, Mauritania, Namibia*, Niger, Nigeria*, Senegal*, South Africa* and Togo. H5N2: Nigeria and South Africa. H5N6: Nigeria. H5N8: Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. H7: South Africa. H7N6: South Africa and Mozambique.
Since October 2025 HPAI outbreaks in Nigeria showed unusual pattern, and a new strain to West Africa (EA‐2024‐DV) was confirmed. Recently, H5N1 HPAI outbreaks were reported in Cote d´Ivoire and Senegal; and an alert regarding high mortality in Guinean poultry farms. In addition, a genotype recently circulating in Europe has already been detected: EA-2024-DI in South Africa and EA-2024-D1.2 in Namibia. Hence, FAO encourages countries to reinforce surveillance in domestic and wild birds, in addition to strengthen biosecurity measures, using ‘One Health’ approach, and to remind poultry holders the value of biosecurity to protect their poultry.
Animal findings: 4 new events since the last update on 11 June 2026.
Number of human cases: no new event since the last update.

* Countries reporting cases in current wave (since 1 October 2025).

Map. Officially reported HPAI outbreaks (H5Nx and H7Nx subtypes) in sub-Saharan Africa, by onset date (1 October 2025 to date)


Map A shows confirmed HPAI events observed from 1 October 2025 to date. Map B shows HPAI events observed from 1 October 2024 to 30 September 2025.

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 July 2025]. Modified with Emergency Prevention System Global Animal Disease Information System (EMPRES-i), WOAH and National Authorities data, 2026.

Situation update

Table. High pathogenicity avian influenza events reported in animals since 1 October 2025 (i.e. current wave)

VirusCountry (administrative regions affected)Last event observed# events reported since the last updateTotal #events since 1 October 2025Species affected since the last update (orange) and since 1 Oct. 2025 (black)

H5N1

Cote d`Ivoire (Zanzan)

15/04/2026

0

1

Poultry

Namibia
(Karas)

10/12/2025

0

1

Common Tern

Nigeria
(Bauchi, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Ogun, Plateau, Taraba)

22/06/2026

1

30

Chicken, Turkey, Poultry

Senegal (Dakar)

11/05/2026

0

1

Duck, Poultry

South Africa
(Eastern Cape, Limpopo, North West, Western Cape)

08/06/2026

3

40

Goose, Poultry, Domestic Non-poultry birds; African (Jackass) Penguin, Black Sparrowhawk, Brown Skua, Cape cormorant, Common Tern, Crowned cormorant, Egyptian Goose, Grey-headed gull, Grey Heron, Hartlaub's gull, Kelp Gull, Laridae, Litle stint, Reed Cormorant, Sacred ibis, Swift tern, White-backed Vulture, White-breasted cormorant

Data was retrieved from WOAH WAHIS portal and Sharing other important animal health information with WOAH page [link], government websites. Data cutoff time: reported on 9 July 2026, 8:30 CET. Blue: the first report of infection in the species. The full list of bird and mammalian species affected by H5Nx HPAI are here. For more information, consult dedicated webpage of 1: DFFE, South Africa.

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

Shittu, I., Rodriguez, J., Oguzie, J.U., Trujillo-Vargas, C.M., Marushchak, L.V., Nguyen-Tien, T., Schneider, N.E., Lednicky, J.A. & Gray, G.C. 2026. Detection of antibodies to avian influenza virus H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b in naturally infected cattle for more than a year. Sci. Rep. [reference] This prospective study assessed humoral immune responses in 15 dairy cattle from an H5N1-affected farm using microneutralization, haemagglutination-inhibition and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. At 13 months post-outbreak, H5 antibody titles remained detectable in half of the cattle tested by microneutralization, which appeared to be the most sensitive assay. The findings provide evidence of long-lasting antibody responses following natural HPAI H5N1 infection in dairy cattle and support the use of serological assays to inform monitoring and future H5 vaccination strategies in cattle.

Nabil, N.M., Tawakol, M.M., Hagag, N., Eid, S., Brierley, L. & Naguib, M.M. 2026. Molecular surveillance and predictive risk modelling of avian influenza virus in wild birds in Egypt. J. Gen. Virol., 107:002278. [reference] This study sampled 1 087 wild birds from 19 species in Egypt to assess the role of migratory wild birds in the introduction and spread of avian influenza viruses. Six species tested positive for AIV, with H5 representing the majority of positive cases and H5/H9 coinfections observed in Eurasian teal, common moorhen and northern pintail. The study also developed a spatial machine-learning model that identified relative humidity, temperature and proximity to wetlands as key predictors of AIV detection, highlighting high-risk areas including the Nile Delta, the Nile River corridor, southern wetlands near Lake Nasser, the south-eastern Red Sea coast and the north-western Siwa region. The findings support risk-based surveillance in wild birds and targeted early detection measures in areas at higher risk of virus introduction and spread.

Gadzhiev, A., Petherbridge, G., Alekseev, A., Mutashev, B., Sharshov, K., Sobolev, I., Daudova, M., Perkovskii, M., Fereidouni, S. & Shestopalov, A. 2026. Global dynamics of avian influenza: a twenty-year analysis of highly pathogenic viruses linking the Caspian Basin, Eurasia and Africa sectors (2005–2025). Front. Cell. Infect. Microbiol., 16:1795327. [reference] This review synthesizes virological and ecological evidence on HPAI HxNy virus movements from 2005 to 2025 across the Caspian Basin, Eurasia and Africa. It describes the Caspian–Black Sea region and aquatic bird flyways as key connectors for virus dispersal, including H5N1 spread into Africa, H9N2 establishment in Egypt and the Maghreb, and viral exchanges between Africa and Eurasia. The findings highlight the need for integrated surveillance, early warning and coordinated responses across Africa–Eurasia flyway systems.

Shittu, I., Rodriguez, J., Oguzie, J.U., Trujillo-Vargas, C.M., Marushchak, L.V., Nguyen-Tien, T., Schneider, N.E., Lednicky, J.A. & Gray, G.C. 2026. Detection of antibodies to avian influenza virus H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b in naturally infected cattle for more than a year. Sci. Rep. [reference]

Nabil, N.M., Tawakol, M.M., Hagag, N., Eid, S., Brierley, L. & Naguib, M.M. 2026. Molecular surveillance and predictive risk modelling of avian influenza virus in wild birds in Egypt. J. Gen. Virol., 107:002278. [reference]

Gadzhiev, A., Petherbridge, G., Alekseev, A., Mutashev, B., Sharshov, K., Sobolev, I., Daudova, M., Perkovskii, M., Fereidouni, S. & Shestopalov, A. 2026. Global dynamics of avian influenza: a twenty-year analysis of highly pathogenic viruses linking the Caspian Basin, Eurasia and Africa sectors (2005–2025). Front. Cell. Infect. Microbiol., 16:1795327. [reference]

Gomaa, M.R., Yazbek, J., Abi-Said, M., Elsaadani, B., Zahra, D., Emam, H., Kamel, M.N., et al.. 2026. Spill-over of avian and human influenza A viruses to swine in Egypt and Lebanon. Zoonotic Dis., 6(2):21. [reference]

Abdelaal, A.M., Mahmoud, S.H., Shehata, M.R., AbdElSalam, E.T., Abo Shama, N.M., Kandeil, A.M., Shehata, M., Ali, M.A. & Khalil, A.A. 2026. Comparative immunogenicity and cross-protection of wild-type and reverse genetics H5N8 (clade 2.3.4.4b) oil-adjuvanted vaccines against circulating H5N1 avian influenza viruses from clades 2.3.4.4b and 2.2.1.2. Avian Pathol., 1–14. [reference]

Hamunyela, E., Coetzee, L., Marcacci, M., Ancora, M., Celani, P., Secondini, B., Mincarelli, L., Monne, I., Dianati, M. & Molini, U. 2026. Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus outbreak among common terns (Sterna hirundo) in Namibia, 2025–2026. Vet. Ital., 62(2). [reference]

Meseko, C., Zecchin, B., Go-Maro, E.W., Dianati, M., Mkpuma, N., Inuwa, B., Bakam, J., et al.. 2026. Emergence and rapid spread of a new reassortant high pathogenicity H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b avian influenza virus in Nigeria. Influenza Other Respir Viruses, 20(5):e70260. [reference]

Yehia, N., Ibrahim, M., Shady, R.M., Mohamed, A.A.E., Said, D., Taha, M.E., Arafa, A., et al.. 2026. Concurrent circulation of avian influenza viruses H5N1 and H9N2 enhances the genetic evolution of reassortant viruses in Egyptian poultry populations. PLoS One, 21(5):e0348609. [reference]

Okutu, I.A., Asantewaa, P., Angwaawie, P., Gbadamashie, L., Kitsi, C., Nunyuieto, R., Mensah, E.K., Dapaa, S., Deffor, D. & Noora, C.L. 2026. Investigation of avian influenza outbreak in birds at the Akatsi South Municipality, Ghana, 2025. J. interv. epidemiol. public health, 9(ConfProc7):035. [reference]

Dumevi, C.Y., Joel, M., Adzomfoa, D.E., Sosu, S.Q., Nyebiribi, D., Banini, J.A.N., Teiko, D.A., et al.. 2026. Avian influenza preparedness in Ghana: a cross-sectional assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practices among residents of Nsawam-Adoagyiri Municipality, Eastern Region. BMC Public Health. 2026 Mar 17. [reference]

Dundon, W.G., Monjane, I.V., Nhabomba, V., Tamele, E., Djedje, H., Sussuro, A., Van-Dúnem, T.M., et al.. 2026. Case report: Detection and characterization of avian influenza virus H9N2 in a broiler farm in Mozambique, 2025. Front Vet Sci, 13:1765651. [reference]

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. [reference]

Nisaa, Z., Häsler, B., Bennani, H., Jorquera, R., Scolamacchia, F. & Alarcon, P. 2026. Global economic impacts of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza: A systematic review and impact framework. Prev Vet Med, 251:106827. [reference]

Mkpuma, N., Meseko, C., Shittu, I., Chukwu, C., Afiukwa, F.N., Iroha, I.R., Muhammad, M. & Ogbu, O. 2026. Molecular characterization and phylogeography of equine influenza virus H3N8 detected in donkeys in Nigeria 2022-2023. BMC Vet Res. 2026 Feb 3. [reference]

Nyarko SO, Asante IA, Sarpong GM, Boatemaa L, Kwasah L, Awuku-Larbi Y, Magnusen V, Wutsika J, Ago S, Amenuvor EAA, Adusei-Poku M, Ntim NAA, Wordui J, Sekyi-Yorke AN, Takyi C, Nyarko JA, Quarcoo JA, Doku I, Tackie RA, Odoom T, Danso F, Nyarko EO, Asiedu W, Mingle DL, Attram N, Cameron-Paintsil S, Terrel S, Miranda H, Ampofo WK. 2026. Evidence of High Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 Clade 2.3.4.4b Among Poultry in Ghana From 2021 to 2022. Vet Med Sci, 12(1):e70744. [reference]

Ibrahim M, Said A, Wahba MA & Yehia N. 2026. Genetic and antigenic analysis of the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 virus clade 2.3.4.4b isolated from waterfowl in Egypt during 2022; evidence of brain-specific HA mutations. Br Poult Sci, 2026 Jan 7:1-10. [reference]

Steinfurth A, Lynton-Jenkins JG, Cleeland J, Mollett BC, Coombes HA, Moores A, Neal R, Clifton B, Falchieri M, Jones CW, Risi MM, Gold S, James J, Ryan PG, González Solís J, Banyard AC. 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. [reference]

Ali WH, Saeed IK, Mutwakil SM, Alamin MH, Balla AA, Ahmed MAE, Saeed AA, Asil RM, Algezoli OA, Abdellatif MM, Ali YH. 2025. Isolation and subtyping of avian influenza A virus from wild birds in Khartoum, Sudan. Onderstepoort J Vet Res, 92(1):e1-e5. [reference]

Al-Mustapha AI, Adetunji V, Ogundijo OA, Odetokun IA, Oyafajo L, Abali HW, Oyewo M, Abubakar AT, Muhammad SO, Adetunji DA, Odukoya A, Haruna A, Bamidele F, Elelu N, Fasina FO. Animal Disease Burden in Nigeria, 2006-2023. Transbound Emerg Dis, 2025:1694850. [reference]

Abolnik, C. 2025. Avian influenza situation report-Africa. Can J Microbiol, 71:1-4. [reference]

Abdusalam, M., Elbasir, M., Ashteba, M., Saeed, A., Ebrahim, F., Aslougi, A., Alhudiri, I., Meshri, S.E.E., Sharif, M. & Elzagheid, A. 2025. Monitoring influenza A virus in wild migratory birds and waterfowl in Libya using RT-qPCR. Open Vet J, 15(9):4735-4743. [reference]

Benlashehr, I., Agha, A.S.K., Naffati, K.M., Bshina, S.A., Khashkhosha, A.A., Asheg, A.A. & Kammon, A.M. 2025. Age-related serological response to H9N2 infection in southwest Tripoli, Libya. Open Vet J, 15(10):5361-5367. [reference]

Kamel, M.N., Moatasim, Y., Aboulhoda, B.E., Gomaa, M., El Taweel, A., Kutkat, O., El Sayes, M., et al. 2025. Genetic Characterization and Pathogenesis of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus A (H5N1) Isolated in Egypt During 2021-2023. Viruses, 17(10):1370. [reference]

Adesola RO, Bakre AA, Ogunro BN, Omotosho O, Ogundijo OA, Meseko CA, Inuwa B, et al. 2025. Avian Influenza Screening in Captive Wild Birds and Biosecurity Appraisal of Zoological Gardens in Southwestern Nigeria. Vet Med Int, 2025:3419266. [reference]

Kadja, M.C., Bako, A.B.I., Onidje, E., Cissé, A.K., Sourokou Sabi, S. & Fellahi, S. 2025. Molecular Detection and Genetic Characterization of H9N2 Avian Influenza Virus in Laying Hen and Broiler Farms in Dakar and Thies Regions, Senegal. Vet Ital, 2025 Sep 4;61(4). [reference]

Kamel, M.N., Moatasim, Y., Aboulhoda, B.E., Gomaa, M., El Taweel, A., Kutkat, O., El Sayes, M., et al. 2025. Genetic Characterization and Pathogenesis of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus A (H5N1) Isolated in Egypt During 2021–2023. Viruses, 17:1370. [reference]

Gomez, J.F., Bemis, I.G., Shittu, I., Gray, G.C. & Coleman, K.K. 2025. Outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza a(H5N1) among house cats: A case series involving oseltamivir treatment. One Health, 21:101211. [reference]

Shittu, I., Rodriguez, J., Oguzie, J.U., Trujillo-Vargas, C.M., Marushchak, L.V., Nguyen-Tien, T., Schneider, N.E., Lednicky, J.A., & Gray, G.C. 2025. Sustained High Levels of Antibodies to Avian Influenza Virus H5N1 Clade 2.3.4.4b in Naturally Infected Cattle.

El-Tholoth, M., Seboussi, R., Hussein, M., Rahmdel, S., Alalawi, A. & Bau, H.H. 2025. Smartphone-Linked and Electricity-Free Platforms for Rapid Colorimetric Molecular Detection of Poultry Respiratory Viruses at the Point of Need. Biosensors (Basel), 15(10):638. [reference]

Asante, I.A., Asante-Ntim, N.A., Abankwa, A.A., Ofori, O.B., Boatemaa, L., Kwasah, L., Quarcoo, J.A., et al. 2025. Characterization of the first detected Avian Influenza A(H9N2) human case in Ghana. Emerg Microbes Infect, 2025 Sep 3:2556717. [reference]

Medialdea Carrera, R., Hammond, A., Michel, J.M., Lewis, H., Lee, Y.K., Ezerska, L.A., Williams, G.S., Zhang, W. & AbdelMalik, P. 2025. Coordination and collaboration for strengthening respiratory surveillance at the national level: updates from workshop hosted by the WHO Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence, 24-25 July 2024. BMC Proc, 19(Suppl 23):24. [reference]

Shittu, I., Cummings, D.B., Groves, J.T., Hagan, A.G. & Gray, G.C. 2025. Low Levels of Neutralizing Antibodies to Influenza A (H5N1) and D Viruses Among Cattle and Cattle Workers on US Farms, 2024-2025. Influenza Other Respir Viruses. 2025 Sep;19(9):e70162. [reference]

Oluwadare, F.A., Inuwa, B., Nicodemus, M., Killo, A.O., Ogunmolawa, O., Darang, A., Igah, O., et al. 2025. Seroreactivity of clandestinely traded avian influenza vaccines in Nigeria. PAMJ-One Health, 17(13). [reference]

Meseko, C., Edet, U.O., Henshaw, O., Mkpuma, N., Olawuyi, K.A. Archibong, C. 2025. Bibliometric analysis of highly pathogenic avian influenza research globally from 2003 to 2023. Germs, 15(1):11-25. [reference]

Pulscher, L.A., Maruschak, L.V., Shittu, I., Alsharif, H. & Gray, G.C. 2025. No Evidence of Novel Respiratory Viruses on Two Texas Dairy Farms Before the H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus Epizootic. Influenza Other Respir Viruses, 19(8): e70146. [reference]

Asante, I.A., Asante-Ntim, N.A., Abankwa, A.A., Ofori, O.B., Boatemaa, L., Kwasah, L., Quarcoo, J.A., et al. 2025. Characterization of the first detected Avian Influenza A(H9N2) human case in Ghana. Emerg Microbes Infect, 2025 Sep 3:2556717. [reference]

Beyit, A.D., Yahya, B., Ebou, M.H. Mekhalla, L.O., Haki, M.L., N’diay, F.B., Baba, D., et al. 2025. Detection and characterization of avian influenza H9N2 in a broiler farm in Mauritania; 2024. Vet Res Commun, 49:272. [reference]

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Mosaad, Z., Hagag, N.M., Elsayed, M.M., Mady, W.H., Zanaty, A.M., El-Badiea, Z.A., Amer, F., et al. 2025. Isolation, characterization and phylogenetic analyses of avian influenza A (H9N2) viruses isolated from poultry between 2019 and 2023 in Egypt. BMC Vet Res, 21(1):455. [reference]

Soka S, Mayengo M & Kgosimore M. 2025. Modeling the effects of contaminated environments on the transmission dynamics of avian influenza in humans and domestic birds. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis, 122:102370. [reference]

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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]

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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]

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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]

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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]

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Actions by the countries and/or supported by FAO

Global level
  • OFFLU published a perspective examining the spillover of HPAI H5Nx viruses into mammals, outlining impacts across species, associated risks, and how surveillance systems may need to adapt in response to the increasing frequency of mammalian cases. [link]
  • On 4 March 2026, OFFLU (WOAH/FAO Network of Expertise on Animal Influenza) released 'Global overview of the spread and impact of H5 clade 2.3.4.4b HPAI virus in wildlife, 2020-2024' which explained that Clade 2.3.4.4b high pathogenicity avian influenza H5 has shown unprecedented geographic expansion in wild birds in recent years. In this OFFLU report, experts from around the world reviewed its spread and expanding host range, as well as associated mortality events in wild birds and mammals from 2020 to 2024. To translate this knowledge into action, a priority list of high-level recommendations was described that could improve current HPAI surveillance, preparedness and response, and strengthen wildlife population resilience. [link]
Regional level
  • A week-long hands-on training session for laboratory technician from Cabo Verde and Guinea-Bissau at LNERV in Dakar, Senegal to strengthen laboratory capacity under preparation under FAO’s Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) through a subregional project (TCP/SFW/4002).
  • West Africa region has experienced renewed high-risk waves of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, characterized by the continued dominance of the clade 2.3.4.4b genotype. Since early 2025, HPAI events have been confirmed by the national veterinary laboratories in Nigeria (n=45), Ghana (n=1), Liberia (n=1), Niger (n=3), and Togo (n=4). FAO has assisted countries in sending samples to IZSVe, a FAO reference center in Padova, for further confirmation and genetic characterization. The results highlighted ongoing situation in the region. In Nigeria, all the isolates belonged to clade 2.3.4.4b, broadly consistent with the viruses circulating in West Africa. However, the complete genomes sequencing indicated a novel genotype EA-2024-DV. The presence of HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b was confirmed also in Ghana. Whole-genome sequencing revealed two distinct genotypes: usual genotype already identified in Ghana in 2024, and EA-2024-DI.2 genotype (predominant in Europe during 2024-2025) which could be a new introduction to West Africa. In early 2025, Togo confirmed the presence of HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b, a new genotype which had not been previously reported in the country, a highest genetic similarity was found with H5N1 sequences from Ghana and Israel. Liberia also reported its first detection of HPAI H5N1 outbreak in early 2025 confirmed by the national veterinary laboratory, but no samples were sent to the IZSVe for further confirmation and sequencing. In Niger, the last HPAI H5N1 outbreak confirmed by the national veterinary laboratory was in 2024, but no samples were sent to the IZSVe either. FAO has provided diagnostic reagents/consumables for Avian Influenza for the veterinary laboratories to enhance early detection capabilities.
National level

Burundi:

  • As part of efforts to prevent and control HPAI, FAOBDI has recently supported several initiatives aimed at strengthening surveillance, diagnosis and preparedness for health emergencies. These initiatives include the development, updating, validation and harmonisation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the safe handling of biological samples for the benefit of the National Veterinary Laboratory. This activity will help to strengthen diagnostic capacity and improve the quality of analyses, thereby facilitating the early detection of infectious agents and enhancing preparedness for and response to public health emergencies linked to animal and zoonotic diseases, including avian influenza.
  • Reagents and consumables for the diagnosis of animal diseases are currently being procured, including orders expected from Fleischhacker under the LTA agreement. Primers for the molecular diagnosis of avian influenza have also recently been delivered to the National Veterinary Laboratory under the LTA agreement with Microsynth.
  • In addition, 39 veterinary support staff working in the field for the Ministry of the Environment, Agriculture and Livestock have been trained in participatory epidemiology. Fieldwork involving data collection and analysis is currently underway, helping to strengthen community-based surveillance and the early detection of animal diseases.
  • A study on the health risks associated with the consumption of bush meat is currently being prepared, with the support of a veterinary epidemiologist and a socio-anthropologist. This study will cover the risks associated with HPAI and other zoonoses, as well as preventive measures, particularly in relation to biosecurity.

Cote d'Ivoire:

  • The results of the biosecurity assessment in poultry farms and markets in the main poultry farming areas of Agnibilekro and Abidjan to the veterinary services were presented as a part of avian influenza (AI) prevention efforts following initiatives led by FAO. This study also explored the factors influencing the adoption of biosecurity measures and identified corrective actions to be taken.

Ghana:

  • Closing Event of the project "Strengthening One Health and Biosecurity for National and Producer Resilience – Preventing National and Global Health Threats" (GCP/GLO/1076/USA) was held in Accra on 22-23 April to consolidate and reflect on the results achieved, lessons learned, and innovations generated. The US funded project supported countries in translating global tools, standards and guidance into operational solutions adapted to local contexts, facilitated collaboration among national authorities, regional institutions and other partners, with strong emphasis on community-level engagement in early detection and prevention.
  • The fist simulation exercise on interoperability between FAO made Event Mobile Application (EMA-i+) and SILAB (Laboratory information system) was held in April. After the technical demonstrations, a live simulation was conducted on-site. This was followed by a national stakeholder Workshop to review the exercise results.
  • FAO has provided diagnostic reagents/consumables for Avian Influenza for the veterinary laboratory under the Pandemic Fund to enhance early detection capabilities.

Guinea:

  • Following an alert regarding high mortality rates in poultry farms, the Government, through the Ministry responsible for Livestock, conducted a field investigation in the affected areas. Samples were collected from all suspected cases, particularly chickens exhibiting clinical signs consistent with avian influenza. In parallel, extensive awareness campaigns were carried out across the poultry value chain to inform stakeholders about the ongoing outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in neighbouring countries, notably Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire. The campaigns emphasized the importance of biosecurity measures, early detection, and timely reporting of suspected cases.
  • FAO supported these efforts by reviewing the list of laboratory requirements and providing appropriate diagnostic protocols for the testing of samples collected during the field investigations.

Madagascar:

  • Facing the persistent threat of HPAI and increased circulation of the virus in the region, Madagascar, through the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DSV), commits to updating its contingency plan in order to have a strategic, operational and intersectoral tool. The new plan focuses on three priority areas: Strengthening preventive measures to limit the risks of introducing the virus into national territory; Improving early detection of the disease, at all levels of intervention and in each sector concerned; The optimization of emergency response capacities in case of outbreaks, − to implement a coherent and coordinated response, based on the "One Health" approach, promoting synergy between animal, human and environmental health sectors.

Niger:

  • Digitising data has been processed through the national animal health data information platform to improve reporting, centralisation and data management for rapid and effective decision-making. The REPREP (programme for preparedness and response to zoonotic disease outbreaks, based on the One Health approach) has been finalized including SOP on the surveillance and management of avian influenza outbreaks for joint emergency interventions in the event of an outbreak. The Ministry of Livestock, in collaboration with the One Health Committee and other partners is promoting awareness on biosecurity measures for stakeholders in the value chain and training for One Health community agents on community-based surveillance. Field epidemiologists have been trained by the University of Tillaberi in field epidemiology for veterinary professionals (ISAVET) with funding from FAO to strengthen HPAI surveillance in the field.

Nigeria:

  • HPAI outbreaks have been reported also last month, government is advocating biosecurity measures including communication through local radio targeting poultry value chain actors; FAO has assisted veterinary services by sharing technical knowledge and supported in sending samples to IZSVe for genetic characterization.
  • The rapid response team (Federal Veterinary Services at the Ministry responsible for livestock development) mobilized and implemented the following measures: (1) Restriction of movements in the affected area; (2) Culling where possible; (3) Decontamination/disinfection and other biosecurity measures; (4) Targeted surveillance and ongoing laboratory testing are planned; (5) Information sharing: WOAH, FAO, OFFLU, Regional Animal Health Center for West Africa.

Senegal:

  • A Farmers Field School (FFS) for poultry farmers was conducted this year as Training for Trainers (ToT). The curricula on biosecurity training for poultry farmers developed will be used to further scale up the biosecurity and good practice in poultry farming.

The United Republic of Tanzania:

  • On the efforts for prevention of the emergence and spread of poultry related infectious diseases, FAO in Collaboration with the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries under Fleming Fund (Global Grant) support has implemented farmer field schools (FFS) in six locations (Arumeru, Bigwa, Kihonda, Chanika, Somangila and Kigamboni wards) of mainland Tanzania engaging 182 broiler farmers who graduated in March 2025. The main interventions engaged were on-farm biosecurity measures (hygiene, footbath, limiting free access to broiler farms, etc), vaccination and other best broiler production practices. The impact of these interventions has resind in to limiting occurrence of various infectious diseases, hence reducing the need for antimicrobial use in the agrifood systems and maximizing economic benefits at farm level.

Zambia:

  • Active surveillance was conducted from 1 to 31 of May 2026 targeting breeder layer flocks aged 22 to 75 weeks. 200 Cloacal swabs (100 each) were collected from farms in the Lusaka Province and Southern Province. All tested Negative for M, H5, and H7 genes by Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All the tests were done at the Central Veterinary Research Institute in Lusaka.

Zimbabwe:

  • FAO was invited to two weeks ago 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 (detailed report can be requested from CIRAD if needed).
  • From the government department of veterinary technical services (DVTS), routine surveillance being conducted in large commercial farms, where they submit samples quarterly, but this is limited to that scale of producers only.

Important links

FAO publicaitions

FAO EMPRES Watch, Focus On, empres360 & qualitative risk assessment

FAO Online courses & webinars

FAO report

FAO newsletters

FAO-WOAH

OFFLU

Joint risk assessments

FAO-WHO-WOAH

Wildlife & mammals

Other useful links

WHO

WOAH

Next issue: 13 August 2026
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.

Contact

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