Authorities confirmed an outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) after the virus was detected in a dead tawny owl found on February 25, 2025, in Włodawa, located within Poland's Lublin province. This incident marks the second identified case of HPAI this year within the region, as reported by the Powiatowy Inspektorat Weterynarii (District Veterinary Inspectorate).
Following the discovery, local officials have issued warnings and requested residents to avoid the area surrounding the Municipal Park near Aleja Jana Pawła II. "This decision aims to limit the risk of spreading the disease and allow appropriate services to conduct necessary protective actions," stated the city council. Residents are urged to exercise caution and comply with all safety recommendations provided by veterinary services.
The emergence of HPAI cases has raised concerns among health and environmental officials, particularly since the first such outbreak this year involved a swan recorded in the nearby municipality of Puławy. Since New Year's Day 2025, Poland has reported thirty-four outbreaks of avian influenza among domestic birds, alongside seven HPAI outbreaks among captive birds and twenty affecting wild birds, which include swans, sparrows, and various raptor species.
The District Veterinary Inspectorate of Włodawa has published regulations within the Official Journal of the Lublin Province, establishing designated infected zones throughout the city. These regulations specify mandates and prohibitions related to poultry maintenance and transportation, as well as guidelines for marking the boundaries of these zones with warning signs on roads. Such measures are aimed at mitigating the disease's spread and preventing future outbreaks.
Despite the serious nature of HPAI, the risk of transmission to humans remains classified as low. According to the General Veterinary Inspectorate, there have been fewer than 1,000 recorded cases of HPAI infections among humans globally, with most occurrences reported historically within Asia and Africa. While human cases remain rare, certain strains could potentially pose health risks, especially following direct contact with infected birds.
HPAI, or Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, is considered particularly hazardous due to its high mortality rate among both wild and domesticated birds. The disease is caused by type A influenza viruses which can rapidly spread, particularly within areas populated with birds, particularly during their migration periods. Veterinary services have reiterated the importance of reporting any sightings of dead birds to minimize the risk of the virus disseminated among the local avian population.
With the recent outbreak, health officials are stressing the need for vigilance and recommended practices for residents. Citizens are advised to avoid contact with any wild birds and remain cautious about poultry handling, especially under conditions where HPAI is suspected or confirmed. The public's cooperation is deemed integral to controlling and eventually eradicaticing this outbreak.
Ongoing surveillance and immediate reporting of any unusual bird mortality or health issues are key strategies put forth by local health authorities to contain the virus. Public health awareness campaigns emphasizing the guidelines for safe practices around birds will also play a pivotal role as the situation develops. Proactive measures, including vaccination of nearby poultry, are also being considered to bolster defenses against possible transmission from wildlife.
Health and veterinary officials remain committed to monitoring the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of preventive actions. The situation is fluid, and as of now, residents are advised continuously to stay updated through official announcements from the veterinary and public health authorities.