FAO Warns Bird Flu Is Becoming a Growing Global Threat

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has warned that avian influenza is becoming a major global concern, with increasing risks to animal health, human health, food security and livelihoods. In a public awareness message, the UN agency said the disease has gone beyond being a poultry health issue as it continues to spread and evolve across different regions.

FAO said the virus can cross national borders and infect a wide range of species, including wild and domestic birds, livestock, pets, wildlife and, in some cases, humans. It also warned that the virus is mutating rapidly, making outbreaks more difficult to predict and control. The agency said continuous monitoring and early action are essential to limit its spread.

The organisation reported that outbreaks have now been recorded in Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas, showing the global scale of the disease. It noted that the spread of avian influenza is affecting public health, international trade and food systems in addition to animal production.

FAO said it is working with governments and international partners to strengthen disease surveillance, improve early detection, train veterinarians and animal health workers, support vaccination where appropriate and coordinate emergency response efforts. It also continues to provide technical support to farmers and frontline responders involved in controlling outbreaks.

The agency called for stronger international cooperation, improved cross-border surveillance and greater investment in animal health systems. It stressed that coordinated action is needed to protect public health, safeguard food supplies and reduce the impact of future bird flu outbreaks.