Current outlook

Spain has been facing a new outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza since October. (IAAP H5N1) with outbreaks confirmed by the MAPA that have affected farms in the towns of Olmedo (Valladolid), Valdemoro (Madrid) and Yeles (Toledo). All the outbreaks have so far occurred in farms layers and with censuses ranging between 14.000 and 727.000 birds.

In an attempt to contain it, different and varied measures have been applied, such as the immobilization of movements, sanitary slaughter, the elimination of SANDACH and the establishment of protection zones (3 km) and surveillance zones (3–10 km).

However, this is a complicated task because, although the outbreaks remain contained, the production density and constant flow of vehicles, feed, and personnel increase the risk of logistical spread of the virus within the restricted areas.

According to EFSA-ECDC report (June–September 2025)The H5N1 virus is currently circulating steadily in domestic and wild birds, with a particular presence in seagulls and migratory birds. For this reason, countries such as France have recently raised their alert levels. from moderate to high, establishing a national bird confinement. On the other hand, the risk to the general public remains low, although it is moderate for exposed personnel such as veterinarians, farm workers or transporters.

Because right now

We are now entering the period of greatest seasonal risk of infection (between November and February), coinciding with winter and the migration of wild birds in the Northern Hemisphere. During this period, low temperatures and high humidity favor the survival of the virus in the environment, while the greater concentration of birds in wetlands increases the opportunities for transmission.

However, data accumulated in recent outbreak investigations show that the determining factor is the movement managementIn the October outbreaks, shared logistics (feed, egg collection, maintenance) has been the main critical point.

Biorisk External: Biosecurity doesn't end at the fence

The concept of biorisk externalThe digital system for real-time external biosecurity control and improvement covers all flows that can introduce or amplify risk: feed, transport, visits, maintenance or removal of animal by-products.

According to Dewulf and Van Immerseel in their book Biosecurity in Animal Production and Veterinary MedicineMovement control constitutes the first external biosecurity barrier, and its effectiveness depends on real-time traceability. Knowing who enters, who leaves, when, and for what purpose allows for a reaction before the virus does.

Traceability is the most effective tool for transforming an outbreak into a controlled incident. Analysis of recent outbreaks confirms that local amplification usually precedes geographic spread, and that unreported internal movements are the main logistical vector.

Managing risk does not mean halting operations, but rather keeping them under control. European experience demonstrates that farms with complete and verifiable records interrupt secondary transmission and avoid prolonged restrictions.

Practical checklist for farms in surveillance zones

Strict application of preventative measures is key to preventing the entry and spread of the virus. The following list of actions summarizes the critical points to be monitored daily on any farm located within a sanitary restriction zone:

• Mandatory access log: any person or vehicle identified with date, reason and length of stay.
• Clean-dirty circuit: change of clothes and footwear in sanitary airlock.
• Vehicle control: disinfection of wheels and undercarriage at a single point, preferably external to the production area.
• Restricted Visiting Plan: limit entry to essential personnel; suppliers and technicians with a minimum of 48 hours without contact with other birds.
• Digital biosecurity audit: daily review of logs and automatic alerts for unauthorized access.

The outbreaks in October serve as a reminder that biosecurity depends not only on physical barriers, but also on the flow of information.

In times of uncertainty, Knowing what is happening is more valuable than imagining what might happen. Preparedness, traceability, and operational calm remain the best antidotes against avian influenza.