Hungary Grapples with First Bird Flu Outbreak of the Season

Hungary has experienced its first outbreak of the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu this season, according to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). This development comes as Europe faces a swift seasonal increase in the deadly disease, prompting heightened international concern.

The spread of avian influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu, has alarmed governments and the poultry industry globally. The virus has devastated flocks worldwide, disrupted supply chains, elevated food prices, and increased the risk of human transmission. Hungary, notably hard-hit during the 2024/25 season, accounted for over half of the EU's outbreaks on poultry farms, primarily from late October to May, according to official records.

The H5N1 virus was discovered on Monday in a flock of 19,700 fattening ducks in Szolnok, resulting in the death of 725 birds, as reported by the Paris-based WOAH. The remaining ducks were culled to prevent further spread. Hungary, the second-largest foie gras producer after France, underscores the economic stakes involved.