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EFSA says, introduction of bird flu from US dairy cattle to Europe very unlikely, but urges vigilance
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Friday, 26 December, 2025, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Brussels, Belgium
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The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published a scientific opinion assessing the risk of a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strain currently circulating in U.S. dairy cattle reaching Europe. According to EFSA’s assessment, the likelihood of the H5N1 genotype virus spreading from U.S. dairy herds into European dairy cattle, poultry, or wild birds is considered very low. However, EFSA experts highlight that if the virus were to arrive, the potential impact on EU animal health and agriculture could be significant, prompting recommendations to enhance preparedness and vigilance across member states.
EFSA conducted the risk assessment at the request of the European Commission, focusing on the specific H5N1 strain identified in U.S. dairy cattle. To prevent introduction and spread, the authority outlined several possible mitigation measures. These include trade restrictions on animals and products from affected regions, thorough cleaning and disinfection of milking equipment, and coordinated response strategies that encompass both poultry and dairy sectors in the event of an outbreak. In addition, EFSA stresses the importance of strict biosecurity practices, such as limiting cattle movements in infected areas and avoiding the shared use of vehicles, equipment, and personnel between farms.
The assessment also examined the potential for virus transmission through dairy products. While raw milk, colostrum, and raw cream could theoretically pose a route of exposure, EFSA underscores that thermal treatments like pasteurisation are highly effective in inactivating the virus, and there have been no reported human infections via foodborne routes linked to this genotype. In light of ongoing outbreaks in the U.S., EFSA recommends strengthened surveillance and awareness among farmers and veterinarians in Europe to ensure early detection and rapid response should the virus emerge.
This updated scientific opinion aligns with broader global concerns over the spread of avian influenza across species but reinforces that proactive monitoring and robust biosecurity remain key to safeguarding European animal health.
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