According to information provided by EFSA, the avian influenza (AI) virus continues to spread in the EU and beyond, causing high mortality in wild birds, spreading to wild and domestic mammals, and outbreaks on farms.

Drivers for viral evolution

A scientific report by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) assesses the risk factors for a potential influenza pandemic and the associated mitigation measures.

Experts have identified certain fur-bearing animal species (such as mink or foxes), which are highly susceptible to influenza viruses, as possible spreading factors.

Although transmission from mammal to mammal has not yet been confirmed, wild mammals could act as bridge hosts between wild birds, domestic animals, and humans. Pets, such as cats, living in households and having outdoor access, could also be potential transmission vehicles.

Risk reduction

Agriculture in areas rich in waterfowl with outdoor production and/or weak biosecurity may facilitate the introduction of the virus into farms and its further spread.

Extreme weather events and climate change play an additional role in the evolution of the situation as they can affect the ecology and demography of wild birds, thus influencing how the disease develops over time, experts have found.

Authorities from various fields should work together with a One Health perspective to limit the exposure of mammals, including humans, to AI viruses.

Surveillance of animals and humans should be improved, along with genomic analysis and the exchange of sequence data. On farms, biosecurity should be strengthened to prevent animals from coming into contact with the infection and spreading it.