EFSA warns bird migration, US imports risk flu spread
HPAI in US dairy cows could reach Europe, report finds
23 July 2025
2 minute read
By: The seasonal migration of wild birds and the importation of certain US products, such as those containing raw milk, could be potential routes for the introduction of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) genotype currently affecting US dairy cows into Europe, a new report released by EFSA says. This virus type has not been reported so far in any country other than the USA.
EFSA’s scientists highlight that key European stop-overs with high-density bird congregations, such as Iceland, Britain, Ireland, western Scandinavia, and large wetlands like the Wadden Sea on the Dutch, Danish and German coasts would be useful places for early detection of the virus during the seasonal migration of wild birds.
The report also addresses the potential for the virus to be introduced into Europe through trade, concluding that the importation of products with raw milk from affected areas in the USA cannot be completely excluded and therefore could be a possible pathway. The importation of dairy cows and bovine meat could also be a potential route for virus introduction. However, the virus has rarely been found in meat, animal imports are very limited, and very strict trade regulations are in place for meat and live animals entering the EU.
EFSA’s report also provides an overview of the situation in the USA, where 981 dairy herds across 16 states were affected between March 2024 and May 2025. The report, which was reviewed by the US authorities, highlights that cattle movement, low biosecurity, and shared farm equipment contributed to the spread of the virus.
By the end of the year, EFSA will assess the potential impact of this HPAI genotype entering Europe, recommending measures to prevent its spread.
