PAHO reports decline in avian influenza outbreaks across the Americas

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reports that avian influenza A(H5) continues to circulate throughout the Americas. While animal outbreaks have decreased compared to the previous year, health officials urge continued vigilance.

Between January and July 15, 2026, ten countries in the region reported 455 animal outbreaks, comprising 386 in birds and 69 in mammals. This represents a 25.7% reduction from the 612 outbreaks recorded during the same period in 2025. The decline was most notable in mammals, where cases dropped by nearly 65%.

No human cases of avian influenza A(H5) have been reported in the Americas so far in 2026. However, between 2022 and late 2025, 75 human infections were documented in Canada, Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, and the United States. Globally, the virus remains present in animals, with significant detections in wild birds in Europe and new findings in Australia and New Zealand.