Bird flu alert: A potential threat to Europe's dairy industry
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has issued a warning, urging heightened vigilance as the highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) continues to spread among US dairy herds. While the risk of this virus reaching Europe is assessed as "very low," the potential impact should it arrive is a cause for concern.
In a recent opinion piece, EFSA experts emphasize the need for preparedness measures. They highlight the ongoing spread of the H5N1 genotype B3.13 across American farms, which poses a threat to European dairy farms if not contained. The assessment focuses on this specific genotype and outlines crucial mitigation strategies.
"The strain of avian influenza found in US dairy cows is unlikely to reach Europe, but its potential impact could be significant," EFSA states. To prevent its introduction, EFSA recommends trade restrictions from affected regions, rigorous cleaning of milking equipment, and restricted movement of cattle in those areas. Additionally, they advise against exchanging workers, vehicles, and equipment between farms to minimize the risk of virus transmission.
EFSA also highlights the effectiveness of thermal treatment, such as pasteurization, in reducing the virus in milk and milk products. The primary route of consumer exposure is through raw milk, colostrum, or milk cream, but there have been no reported cases of foodborne human infection with this genotype so far.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirms the widespread nature of H5 bird flu, affecting wild birds, poultry, and dairy cows, with recent human cases reported among dairy and poultry workers. While the public health risk remains low, CDC is actively monitoring the situation.
This EFSA opinion comes at a time of heightened bird flu concerns. In February, it was reported that the US government allocated a significant sum to combat HPAI, protect the poultry industry, and address soaring egg prices. This investment targeted biosecurity measures and vaccine development to limit the impact of avian flu.
The rising bird flu concerns have also led to political tensions, with investigations into potential collusion among major egg producers to maintain high prices. The impact of avian flu has been significant, with over 150 million birds affected since February 2022.
European surveillance efforts have intensified, with EFSA reporting a four-fold increase in HPAI A(H5) virus detections in wild birds across 26 European countries between September and November 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This is the highest level recorded since at least 2016.
EFSA's latest opinion builds upon a scientific report from July 2025, which analyzed the US situation and identified bird migration and imports of raw milk products as potential routes for virus introduction to Europe. EFSA recommends raising awareness among farmers and veterinarians and strengthening surveillance systems for early detection and containment of HPAI strains.
And here's where it gets controversial: Should Europe be more proactive in implementing these measures, or is the current approach sufficient? What are your thoughts on the potential impact of bird flu on the dairy industry and food safety? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments below!
