Decline after the worst season in five years

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), and EU Reference Laboratory report that highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) detections have started to decline across Europe.

Between November 29, 2025 and February 27, 2026, there were 406 outbreaks in domestic birds and 2,108 detections in wild birds across 32 European countries. Wild bird cases were 3 times higher than the previous year and nearly 5 times higher than two years prior.

The decline follows an exceptionally severe autumn-winter season described as "the worst in 5 years for waterfowl circulation." Despite recent improvements, total outbreaks remain elevated compared to historical periods.

First-ever detection in EU dairy cattle

For the first time in the EU, serological testing detected past exposure to avian influenza in a dairy cattle herd, suggesting possible spillover from wild birds. Investigations are ongoing.

Recommendations

Authorities emphasize strict biosecurity measures including preventing poultry-wild bird contact and strengthening farm-level hygiene controls.