Synopsis (résumé court)
As influenza A(H5N1) of clade 2.3.4.4b continues to spread from wild birds to poultry and to both terrestrial and marine mammals, the recent cases in cattle highlight the critical importance of being prepared for and responding rapidly to spillover events and of planning for early detection and response at the country level, especially in countries of low and middle income. These recommendations from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) aim to support countries in enhancing influenza A(H5N1) surveillance in cattle populations, with broader application to other farmed mammals, to inform risk assessment and evidence-based disease control measures. Integrated surveillance strategies can leverage existing programmes for avian influenza and other cattle diseases, enabling countries to enhance monitoring capabilities while maintaining cost efficiency. With regard to preparing effectively, FAO recommends a combination of different surveillance methods including risk-based surveillance strategies tailored to individual country contexts. Adopting these recommendations will strengthen early detection efforts, support evidence-based decision-making and help implement targeted risk mitigation measures to protect both livestock and public health.
Citer comme suit:
El Masry, I., Delgado, A.H., Silva, G.O.D., Dhingra, M. & Lyons, N.A. 2024. Recommendations for the surveillance of influenza A(H5N1) in cattle – With broader application to other farmed mammals. FAO Animal Production and Health Guidelines, No. 37. Rome, FAO.
