ECDC publish avian influenza overview for August to December 2020

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has published an overview of avian influenza for the period August to December 2020. Between 15 August and 7 December 2020, 561 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus detections were reported in 15 EU/EEA countries and the UK in wild birds, poultry and captive birds. The most affected countries were Germany with 370 cases, Denmark with 65 cases and the Netherlands with 57 cases.

The majority of the detections have been reported in wild birds (n=510), primarily in barnacle goose, greylag goose, and Eurasian wigeon. Raptors have also been detected infected, particularly the common buzzard. The majority of the birds had been found dead or moribund, however, there are also reports of HPAI virus infection in apparently healthy ducks or geese. A total of 43 HPAI outbreaks were notified in poultry, with signs of avian influenza infection being observed in at least 33 outbreaks where the most likely source of infection was indirect contact with wild birds.

Source: ECDC, 11 December 2020