Europe faces new Bird Flu outbreaks in Portugal and Germany

Europe is experiencing a renewed surge in highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), particularly the H5N1 subtype, with new outbreaks reported in Portugal and Germany.

David Corredor

Europe is experiencing a renewed surge in highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), particularly the H5N1 subtype, with new outbreaks reported in Portugal and Germany. Between December 2024 and June 2025, over 700 detections were confirmed across 31 European countries, affecting both wild and domestic birds.

• Portugal reported its first outbreak of the season in early January 2025, in a large poultry farm in Sintra, housing over 55,000 laying hens.
• Authorities responded with immediate containment measures, including culling, movement restrictions, and the establishment of protection zones.
• This marked a significant escalation in Portugal’s avian influenza response.

Germany has seen multiple detections in wild birds, poultry, and even mammals. Species affected include swans, geese, ducks, red foxes, domestic cats, and Eurasian otters. The virus’s spread across species and environments raises concerns about its adaptability and potential for cross-species transmission.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) attribute the resurgence to seasonal bird migrations, colder weather, and gaps in biosecurity. Outdoor access for poultry remains a major risk factor, increasing exposure to infected wild birds.

• Human infections remain rare but are being closely monitored.
• Between December 2024 and June 2025, 42 human cases were reported globally, including in Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, Mexico, and the United Kingdom.
• Most cases were linked to direct contact with infected poultry or dairy cattle.
• No human-to-human transmission has been documented during this period.

A new challenge is emerging with vaccinated poultry flocks, which may show mild or no symptoms, making early detection more difficult and increasing the risk of silent spread.