29.12.2020

J Vet Res, 2020 Dec 1;64(4):469-476.

On 31 December 2019, a novel HPAIV H5N8 clade 2.3.4.4b genotype was confirmed in Polandand quickly spread across the country. Between 31 December 2019 and 31 March 2020, 35 outbreaks in commercial and backyard poultry holdings and 1 case in a wild bird were confirmed in nine provinces of Poland.Most of the outbreaks were detected in meat turkeys and ducks. All characteriזed viruses were closely related and belonged to a previously unrecogniזed genotype of HPAIV H5N8 clade 2.3.4.4b. Wild birds and human activity were identified as the major modes of HPAIV spread. Conclusion: The unprecedentedly late introduction of the HPAI virus urges for re-evaluation of current risk assessments. Continuous vigilance, strengthening biosecurity and intensifying surveillance in wild birds are needed to better manage the risk of HPAI occurrence in the future.