Avian influenza outbreak absent in Finland as monitoring concludes

So far this year, an outbreak of avian influenza has not occurred in Finland. Intensive monitoring of fur farms has revealed no presence of the virus, despite over 1,800 samples being tested from more than 220 farms, covering approximately 270 facilities. However, this monitoring will conclude at the end of September.

The Finnish Food Authority has examined over 200 wild birds this year, detecting the virus in only one case. Research professor Tuija Gadd views the results as unsurprising, describing the situation as “remarkably calm,” although she notes that the virus can resurge seasonally. While several dead gulls have been reported, the cause of death has always been attributed to other factors. Notably, there have been no mass die-offs among gulls this year, unlike in the previous year.

Bird migration is still ongoing, and many remain cautious. Gadd expressed uncertainty over whether avian influenza is behind them, as the migration continues. She speculates that the gulls that initially spread the virus may have developed immunity, suggesting that some individuals build resistance against viral diseases to protect the population.

In July, vaccinations were initiated for at-risk groups, including those handling poultry or working in fur farms.

The virus situation has also calmed in Central Europe, although sporadic cases continue to appear. The European Animal Disease Surveillance Agency has reported this year as notably quiet, the quietest since the 2019-2020 season, with fewer than 30 reported wild bird cases. However, avian influenza remains a significant potential pandemic threat, with vigilance over animal virus and bacterial diseases emphasized for future monitoring efforts. The Finnish Food Authority continues to receive and investigate reports of bird deaths, particularly among wild birds.