Avian Influenza

The emergence of the highly pathogenic strain of the avian influenza virus (HPAI)
was first noted in Europe in the fall of 2020. The virus spread quickly across Europe
and into Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

In the Arctic, the virus has been detected in more than thirty species of birds, as well
as walruses, Arctic foxes, red foxes, brown bears, black bears, and polar bears. The
H5N1 virus has also been spreading in Antarctica among colonies of elephant seals
and fur seals.

As of 2026, the virus is not only persisting in the cold Arctic environment but is also
showing signs of adaptation that may allow it to spread more easily between
mammals.

This report outlines the current situation and spread reduction measures for operators.