Fighting bird flu – 20 years of lessons

By: STA Date: 2026. 03. 17. 10:00

🎧 Hallgasd a cikket: Nyelv: Sebesség: 1.05×

The highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza has been present worldwide since the mid-1990s and has been a constant challenge for animal health ever since. The virus was first identified in Germany in 2006, when it was found in dead wild birds. It then spread rapidly, affecting not only wild birds but also poultry. Over the past two decades, Europe has faced several waves of epidemics, causing significant ecological and economic damage.

(Photo: Pixabay)

The autumn-winter period of 2025/26 was particularly severe: thousands of cranes died in Germany and other European countries. The virus does not only affect birds, but in some cases has also appeared in other animal species, raising new concerns about its spread. In addition, losses in the poultry sector have led to temporary price increases and supply disruptions.

Significant advances have been made in diagnostics over the past twenty years

Real-time PCR technology and next-generation sequencing (NGS) allow for rapid and accurate identification of the virus, even within 24–48 hours. This helps to track outbreaks and assess risks more quickly, which is key to effective control. However, the virus is constantly changing and adapting, so avian influenza remains an unpredictable threat. Control is a complex task: it involves protecting poultry flocks, managing the economic impact and monitoring the risk of possible human infection. Research, international cooperation and regular risk assessment are essential for effective prevention and epidemic management.

NAK