In an address to Member States, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Deputy Director-General Godfrey Magwenzi outlined the difficulties presented by highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Specifically, he noted the importance of enhancing biosecurity measures, monitoring efforts, surveillance systems, rapid response protocols, and risk communication strategies. These enhancements are crucial to protect the poultry industry, safeguard livelihoods, and preserve economies. Furthermore, the protection of biodiversity and the mitigation of the social consequences of the disease, which has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of millions of poultry globally, is of paramount importance. FAO Deputy Director-General Beth Bechdol emphasized the transboundary nature of this issue, which necessitates coordinated global action. According to ANSA sources, a notable alteration in avian influenza’s geographical distribution has been observed, negatively impacting biodiversity through mammal infections and causing substantial losses of domestic avian populations. The consequences for food security and the economy have been severe, evidenced by increased market prices for poultry products.
March 17, 2025
