©DNAP- Bird inspection by Government technicians

05 December 2023- Mozambique recently faced its first-ever cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) of the H7 group, a concerning development for the country and the broader Southern African region. The outbreak, affecting more than 54 000 laying hens in a high biosecurity facility, raised alarms about the potential for further spread and its impact on food security.

In the face of this outbreak, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) through its Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD) swiftly mobilized resources and expertise to contain the spread and mitigate the impact on Mozambique's agricultural and economic landscape.

Recognizing the urgent need for a coordinated and multidisciplinary approach, FAO ECTAD provided crucial laboratory equipment to the central veterinary laboratory in Mozambique through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funding. This support aimed to bolster the country's diagnostic capabilities not only for HPAI but also for other zoonoses, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of the response required.

The outbreak in Mozambique occurred against the backdrop of a significant avian influenza outbreak in South Africa, where millions of chickens were affected by H7N6 and H5 viruses. FAO ECTAD's intervention in Mozambique underlines its commitment to regional cooperation and its recognition of the interconnectedness of transboundary animal diseases and associated impacts on livelihoods, trade and health.

While Mozambique had not reported HPAI cases since 2017, the proximity of the affected farm to the Indian Ocean coast heightened regional concerns about potential further spread. FAO ECTAD's support aligned with its broader mission to build Member Nations' capacities to prevent, detect, and respond to transboundary animal diseases, zoonoses, antimicrobial resistance, and food safety threats.

To complement its on-the-ground assistance, FAO ECTAD released informative standard operating procedures (SOPs) for HPAI response and best practices for biosecurity measures and disease control, reinforcing its commitment to disseminating vital information. The FAO Representative in Mozambique, Mr. José Luis Fernandez emphasized that "the zoonotic potential of avian influenza viruses is an ever present threat to public health. FAO guidance is available to support the government in reviewing the 2006 contingency plan".

In the face of challenges posed by the H7 outbreak in Mozambique, FAO's commitment to preventing, detecting, and responding to transboundary animal diseases has been unwavering. The organization's proactive measures, coupled with the dedication of local stakeholders, exemplify the collective efforts required to safeguard both animal and human well-being in the region.

Learn more
• Website: FAO Animal Health
• Publication: Global Consultation on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza
• Resource: Preparing for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza