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. 2023 Aug;28(31):2300400.
doi: 10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2023.28.31.2300400.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection on multiple fur farms in the South and Central Ostrobothnia regions of Finland, July 2023

Erika Lindh  1 , Hanna Lounela  2 , Niina Ikonen  1 , Tuija Kantala  2 , Carita Savolainen-Kopra  1 , Ari Kauppinen  2 , Pamela Österlund  1 , Lauri Kareinen  2 , Anna Katz  1 , Tiina Nokireki  2 , Jari Jalava  1 , Laura London  2 , Marjaana Pitkäpaasi  1 , Jaana Vuolle  2 , Anna-Liisa Punto-Luoma  1 , Riikka Kaarto  3 , Liina Voutilainen  1 , Riikka Holopainen  2 , Laura Kalin-Mänttäri  1 , Terhi Laaksonen  2 , Hannu Kiviranta  1 , Aino Pennanen  1 , Otto Helve  1 , Ilona Laamanen  2 , Merit Melin  1 , Niina Tammiranta  2 , Ruska Rimhanen-Finne  1 , Tuija Gadd  2 , Mika Salminen  1
Affiliations

Highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection on multiple fur farms in the South and Central Ostrobothnia regions of Finland, July 2023

Erika Lindh et al. Euro Surveill. 2023 Aug.

Abstract

Since mid-July 2023, an outbreak caused by highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus clade 2.3.4.4b genotype BB is ongoing among farmed animals in South and Central Ostrobothnia, Finland. Infections in foxes, American minks and raccoon dogs have been confirmed on 20 farms. Genetic analysis suggests introductions from wild birds scavenging for food in farm areas. Investigations point to direct transmission between animals. While no human infections have been detected, control measures are being implemented to limit spread and human exposure.

Keywords: Avian influenza; Finland; H5N1; HPAI; fox; fur animal farms; highly pathogenic avian influenza; mammalian infection; mink; outbreak; raccoon dog.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of interest: None declared.

Figures

Figure
Figure
Fur farms with highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection among animalsa, South and Central Ostrobothnia region, Finland, 12–27 July 2023 (n = 20)
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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