Opinion of the Commission on Zoonoses and Viral Infections of Animals on H5N1

Summary:

The German Society for Virology has released a comprehensive statement on the evolving H5N1 situation, highlighting a significant epidemiological shift: in 2024, highly pathogenic avian influenza was detected in dairy cattle in the United States for the first time, affecting over 600 farms. The statement emphasizes the virus’s demonstrated ability to adapt to mammalian hosts and underscores the importance of vaccination strategies for both at-risk poultry populations and humans with direct bird contact. The Commission supports expanding surveillance measures, developing practical monitoring strategies for vaccinated livestock, and maintaining continuous research on zoonotic diseases within a One Health framework.