Pathfinder
Editor, Senior Moderator
Sub-Saharan Africa HPAI situation update
14 May 2026, 08:30 hours; Rome
Situation: High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) virus (H5, H5N1, H5N2, H5N6, H5N8, H7 and H7N6 subtypes) with pandemic potential in countries of Sub-Saharan Africa since February 2017.
Confirmed countries - H5: South Africa. H5N1: Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire*, Réunion (France), Gambia, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Lesotho, Mali, Mauritania, Namibia*, Niger, Nigeria*, Senegal, South Africa* and Togo. H5N2: Nigeria and South Africa. H5N6: Nigeria. H5N8: Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. H7: South Africa. H7N6: South Africa and Mozambique.
This flu season, HPAI outbreaks in Nigeria showed unusual pattern. This was followed by the detection of a new reassortant EA‐2024‐DV genotype of H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b, according to the recent publication by the laboratories in Nigeria, Togo, and the FAO Reference Centre Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVe) in Italy. Usually, new types of influenza virus are introduced into West Africa from Europe, likely through wild birds. However, according to the paper, this EA‐2024‐DV, which was new to West Africa and also confirmed in samples from Ghana and Togo, has not been reported in Europe. And according to another paper, EA‐2024‐DI genotype, recently circulating in Europe has even been detected in South Africa. Hence, FAO encourages countries to reinforce surveillance in domestic and wild birds, in addition to strengthen biosecurity measures, using ‘One Health’ approach, and to remind poultry holders the value of biosecurity to protect their poultry.
Animal findings: 1 new event since the last update on 9 April 2026.
Number of human cases: no new event since the last update.
* Countries reporting cases in current wave (since 1 October 2025).
Map. Officially reported HPAI outbreaks (H5Nx and H7Nx subtypes) in sub-Saharan Africa, by onset date (1 October 2025 to date)
Map A shows confirmed HPAI events observed from 1 October 2025 to date. Map B shows HPAI events observed from 1 October 2024 to 30 September 2025.
Notes: Refer to the disclaimer available on this webpage for the names and boundaries in this map. Final boundary between the Republic of Sudan and the Republic of South Sudan has not yet been determined. Final status of the Abyei area is not yet determined.
Source: United Nations Geospatial. 2020. Map of the World. [Cited May 2025]. Modified with Emergency Prevention System Global Animal Disease Information System (EMPRES-i), WOAH and National Authorities data, 2026.
Situation update
(screenshot)
Data was retrieved from WOAH WAHIS portal and Sharing other important animal health information with WOAH page [link], government websites. Data cutoff time: reported on 14 May 2026, 8:30 CET. Blue: the first report of infection in the species. The full list of bird and mammalian species affected by H5Nx HPAI are here. For more information, consult dedicated webpage of 1: DFFE, South Africa.
For a summary of H5N1, H5N6, and H5N8 HPAI events reported in sub-Saharan African countries in previous waves (i.e. before 1 October 2024) please contact EMPRES-Animal Health
Peer-reviewed publications
Meseko, C., Zecchin, B., Go-Maro, E.W., Dianati, M., Mkpuma, N., Inuwa, B., Bakam, J., et al.. 2026. Emergence and rapid spread of a new reassortant high pathogenicity H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b avian influenza virus in Nigeria. Influenza Other Respir Viruses, 20(5):e70260. [reference]This study analysed complete genomes from 34 HPAI H5N1 viruses detected through passive surveillance in domestic birds in Nigeria between January 2023 and April 2025. All viruses belonged to clade 2.3.4.4b; while genotype EA-2020-C predominated in 2023, a new reassortant genotype, EA-2024-DV, emerged in 2024 and became increasingly widespread in Nigeria and other West African countries, including Ghana and Togo.
Yehia, N., Ibrahim, M., Shady, R.M., Mohamed, A.A.E., Said, D., Taha, M.E., Arafa, A., et al.. 2026. Concurrent circulation of avian influenza viruses H5N1 and H9N2 enhances the genetic evolution of reassortant viruses in Egyptian poultry populations. PLoS One, 21(5):e0348609. [reference] This molecular surveillance study tested 50 chicken flocks with respiratory signs from seven governorates in Egypt in 2024 for avian influenza H5 and H9, infectious bronchitis virus and Newcastle disease virus. Full-genome sequencing of selected H5- and H9-positive flocks identified one H5N2 reassortant virus and two reassorted H9N2 viruses, highlighting ongoing genetic evolution linked to the co-circulation of HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b and endemic H9N2 viruses.
Okutu, I.A., Asantewaa, P., Angwaawie, P., Gbadamashie, L., Kitsi, C., Nunyuieto, R., Mensah, E.K., Dapaa, S., Deffor, D. & Noora, C.L. 2026. Investigation of avian influenza outbreak in birds at the Akatsi South Municipality, Ghana, 2025. J. interv. epidemiol. public health, 9(ConfProc7):035. [reference] HPAI H5N1 outbreak occurred in the Akatsi-South Municipality, Volta Region, Ghana from 30 June to 4 July 2025. In-depth interviews were conducted with farm managers and workers using a standardised AI outbreak investigation checklist. Farm-specific Attack rates ranged from 1.6% to 66.7%, with an overall rate of 20.3%. Poor biosecurity and cross-border feed sourcing facilitated farm-to-farm transmission.
More peer-reviewed publications on AI in Africa
Actions by the countries and/or supported by FAO
Global level
- OFFLU published a perspective examining the spillover of HPAI H5Nx viruses into mammals, outlining impacts across species, associated risks, and how surveillance systems may need to adapt in response to the increasing frequency of mammalian cases. [link]
- On 4 March 2026, OFFLU (WOAH/FAO Network of Expertise on Animal Influenza) released 'Global overview of the spread and impact of H5 clade 2.3.4.4b HPAI virus in wildlife, 2020-2024' which explained that Clade 2.3.4.4b high pathogenicity avian influenza H5 has shown unprecedented geographic expansion in wild birds in recent years. In this OFFLU report, experts from around the world reviewed its spread and expanding host range, as well as associated mortality events in wild birds and mammals from 2020 to 2024. To translate this knowledge into action, a priority list of high-level recommendations was described that could improve current HPAI surveillance, preparedness and response, and strengthen wildlife population resilience. [link]
- On 5 February 2026, FAO held a second webinar on avian influenza under the Global Framework for the Progressive Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases (GF-TADs) entitled “Update on latest initiatives for avian influenza prevention and control”, with the participation of FAO, WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health) and the OFFLU (WOAH/FAO Network of Expertise on Animal Influenza). Recording will be soon available [link]. Recording is now available [link].
- At the WHO Vaccine Composition Meeting (VCM) in Istanbul, Türkiye, in February 2026, OFFLU (WOAH/FAO Network of Expertise on Animal Influenza) will provide critical genetic, antigenic and epidemiological data on circulating avian and swine influenza viruses from its international network to inform WHO’s assessment of candidate vaccine viruses for pandemic preparedness. [link]
- A week-long hands-on training session for laboratory technician from Cabo Verde and Guinea-Bissau at LNERV in Dakar, Senegal to strengthen laboratory capacity under preparation under FAO’s Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) through a subregional project (TCP/SFW/4002).
- West Africa region has experienced renewed high-risk waves of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, characterized by the continued dominance of the clade 2.3.4.4b genotype. Since early 2025, HPAI events have been confirmed by the national veterinary laboratories in Nigeria (n=45), Ghana (n=1), Liberia (n=1), Niger (n=3), and Togo (n=4). FAO has assisted countries in sending samples to IZSVe, a FAO reference center in Padova, for further confirmation and genetic characterization. The results highlighted ongoing situation in the region. In Nigeria, all the isolates belonged to clade 2.3.4.4b, broadly consistent with the viruses circulating in West Africa. However, the complete genomes sequencing indicated a novel genotype EA-2024-DV. The presence of HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b was confirmed also in Ghana. Whole-genome sequencing revealed two distinct genotypes: usual genotype already identified in Ghana in 2024, and EA-2024-DI.2 genotype (predominant in Europe during 2024-2025) which could be a new introduction to West Africa. In early 2025, Togo confirmed the presence of HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b, a new genotype which had not been previously reported in the country, a highest genetic similarity was found with H5N1 sequences from Ghana and Israel. Liberia also reported its first detection of HPAI H5N1 outbreak in early 2025 confirmed by the national veterinary laboratory, but no samples were sent to the IZSVe for further confirmation and sequencing. In Niger, the last HPAI H5N1 outbreak confirmed by the national veterinary laboratory was in 2024, but no samples were sent to the IZSVe either. FAO has provided diagnostic reagents/consumables for Avian Influenza for the veterinary laboratories to enhance early detection capabilities.
Burkina Faso:
- As part of the surveillance of animal diseases and zoonoses, including HPAI, FAO-Burkina Faso provided technical and financial support for the training of 18 veterinarians and two environmental officers in field epidemiology, as part of the In Service Applied Veterinary Epidemiology Training (ISAVET) basic level programme. The trainees presented their field reports at a workshop held on 12–13 January in Ouagadougou. Among the topics covered by the trainees were (i) the inspection of poultry and fish processing establishments in the Guiriko and Bankui regions, (ii) assessment of health risks associated with the importation of animals and animal products, the results of which have made it possible to update information on the risk of introduction and spread of HPAI in the country.
- The Directorate-General for Veterinary Services of the Ministry of Livestock and Animal Production is committed to efforts to prevent, monitor and respond to risks associated with HPAI. On 31 December 2025, it organised a tabletop simulation exercise to test the HPAI Contingency Plan. The lessons learnt from this exercise revealed the absence of standard operating procedures dedicated to HPAI contingency planning; furthermore, one of the recommendations from the training workshop on the FAO Emergency Management Manual in September 2025 highlighted the absence of provisions regarding compensation, which is necessary for a comprehensive preparedness document.
- The results of the biosecurity assessment in poultry farms and markets in the main poultry farming areas of Agnibilekro and Abidjan to the veterinary services were presented as a part of avian influenza (AI) prevention efforts following initiatives led by FAO. This study also explored the factors influencing the adoption of biosecurity measures and identified corrective actions to be taken.
- From February 20 to 23, 2026, approximately 100 animal production and health professionals received capacity-building training on poultry husbandry practices and biosecurity measures, as part of implementation of the national strategy to improve compliance to farm biosecurity standards for poultry production. The program focused on importance of biosecurity in reducing production losses and health risks for improved relevance to the needs of the farmers. The training covered farmhouse construction, feed and feeding management, day-old chick management, farm biosecurity practices and measures, infection prevention and control measures, public health risks, vaccination, farm waste management, and record keeping and reporting. Trainees were from Amhara, Benishangul Gumuz, Gambella, Oromia, and Tigray Regions, and Addis Ababa City Administration.
- Closing Event of the project "Strengthening One Health and Biosecurity for National and Producer Resilience – Preventing National and Global Health Threats" (GCP/GLO/1076/USA) was held in Accra on 22-23 April to consolidate and reflect on the results achieved, lessons learned, and innovations generated. The US funded project supported countries in translating global tools, standards and guidance into operational solutions adapted to local contexts, facilitated collaboration among national authorities, regional institutions and other partners, with strong emphasis on community-level engagement in early detection and prevention.
- The fist simulation exercise on interoperability between FAO made Event Mobile Application (EMA-i+) and SILAB (Laboratory information system) was held in April. After the technical demonstrations, a live simulation was conducted on-site. This was followed by a national stakeholder Workshop to review the exercise results.
- FAO has provided diagnostic reagents/consumables for Avian Influenza for the veterinary laboratory under the Pandemic Fund to enhance early detection capabilities.
- The evaluation of the pilot phase of the implementation of the Progressive Management Pathway for Terrestrial Animal Biosecurity (PMP-TAB) approach to good biosecurity practices in poultry farms was conducted and revealed a potential positive impact of biosecurity on reducing avian mortality, better multisectoral coordination and local capacity building.
- FAO Liberia through two of its projects (GCP/LIR/028/UAE and UNJP/LIR/036/UNJ) is supporting the construction of poultry houses, supply of day-old-chicks (DOC) and vaccination (against Newcastle disease) at eight locations in the country. Poultry farmers were trained on general poultry business management, biosecurity and disease reporting under the 2 projects.
- Facing the persistent threat of HPAI and increased circulation of the virus in the region, Madagascar, through the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DSV), commits to updating its contingency plan in order to have a strategic, operational and intersectoral tool. The new plan focuses on three priority areas: Strengthening preventive measures to limit the risks of introducing the virus into national territory; Improving early detection of the disease, at all levels of intervention and in each sector concerned; The optimization of emergency response capacities in case of outbreaks, − to implement a coherent and coordinated response, based on the "One Health" approach, promoting synergy between animal, human and environmental health sectors.
- While there is no HPAI outbreaks have been reported during 2025−2026 period so far, Malawi is proactively strengthening its preparedness and surveillance frameworks.
- Digitising data has been processed through the national animal health data information platform to improve reporting, centralisation and data management for rapid and effective decision-making. The REPREP (programme for preparedness and response to zoonotic disease outbreaks, based on the One Health approach) has been finalized including SOP on the surveillance and management of avian influenza outbreaks for joint emergency interventions in the event of an outbreak. The Ministry of Livestock, in collaboration with the One Health Committee and other partners is promoting awareness on biosecurity measures for stakeholders in the value chain and training for One Health community agents on community-based surveillance. Field epidemiologists have been trained by the University of Tillaberi in field epidemiology for veterinary professionals (ISAVET) with funding from FAO to strengthen HPAI surveillance in the field.
- HPAI outbreaks have been reported also last month, government is advocating biosecurity measures including communication through local radio targeting poultry value chain actors; FAO has assisted veterinary services by sharing technical knowledge and supported in sending samples to IZSVe for genetic characterization.
- The rapid response team (Federal Veterinary Services at the Ministry responsible for livestock development) mobilized and implemented the following measures: (1) Restriction of movements in the affected area; (2) Culling where possible; (3) Decontamination/disinfection and other biosecurity measures; (4) Targeted surveillance and ongoing laboratory testing are planned; (5) Information sharing: WOAH, FAO, OFFLU, Regional Animal Health Center for West Africa.
- A Farmers Field School (FFS) for poultry farmers was conducted this year as Training for Trainers (ToT). The curricula on biosecurity training for poultry farmers developed will be used to further scale up the biosecurity and good practice in poultry farming.
- On the efforts for prevention of the emergence and spread of poultry related infectious diseases, FAO in Collaboration with the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries under Fleming Fund (Global Grant) support has implemented farmer field schools (FFS) in six locations (Arumeru, Bigwa, Kihonda, Chanika, Somangila and Kigamboni wards) of mainland Tanzania engaging 182 broiler farmers who graduated in March 2025. The main interventions engaged were on-farm biosecurity measures (hygiene, footbath, limiting free access to broiler farms, etc), vaccination and other best broiler production practices. The impact of these interventions has resind in to limiting occurrence of various infectious diseases, hence reducing the need for antimicrobial use in the agrifood systems and maximizing economic benefits at farm level.
- The zoonosis prioritisation exercise, conducted from 4 to 7 March 2026 using the One Health approach and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s OHZDP (One Health Zoonotic Disease Prioritisation) tool, ranked highly pathogenic avian influenza among the priority diseases. This activity, which brought together the ministries responsible for animal health, human health and the environment, was made possible thanks to technical and financial support from the FAO through the Pandemic Fund, as well as from the WHO and the CDC. This prioritisation should facilitate increased and more targeted mobilisation of resources to strengthen surveillance, prevention and response to this zoonosis.
- FAO was invited to two weeks ago to attend the HPAI situational analysis in the country- led by CIRAD (French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development) under the Zoosursy project. This was a multi-sectoral engagement that brought up the many gaps in capacity and practices of the country in HPAI surveillance (detailed report can be requested from CIRAD if needed).
- From the government department of veterinary technical services (DVTS), routine surveillance being conducted in large commercial farms, where they submit samples quarterly, but this is limited to that scale of producers only.