Brazil Efficiently Controls the First Case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

In 2025, Brazil reported its first case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) in a commercial poultry farm located in Montenegro, Rio Grande do Sul. Thanks to the swift mobilization of authorities and the productive sector, the outbreak was effectively contained, preserving the country’s animal health status and preventing losses in international trade.

Immediate Control Actions

As soon as the case was confirmed, emergency measures were implemented based on international animal health defense protocols:

• Rapid and isolated containment of the outbreak, preventing virus spread;
• Definition of control zones and intensified surveillance around the property;
• Joint action among MAPA, Rio Grande do Sul’s Animal Health Defense Agency, and the private sector;
• Mobilization of ABPA and GEPIA, providing technical support, educational campaigns, and producer guidance.

International Recognition and Response

Brazil maintained transparent communication with importing countries, which resulted in localized and temporary restrictions, avoiding significant impacts on meat and egg exports.
This approach reinforced the country’s reputation as a global benchmark in poultry health and sanitary crisis management.

Lessons and Learnings

This experience reinforced key principles for Brazil’s poultry industry:

• Continuous surveillance and preparedness are the best protective tools;
• Biosecurity must be a permanent practice, not only in emergencies;
• Transparency and cooperation between the public and private sectors strengthen Brazil’s international credibility.

Outcome

Through a swift and coordinated technical response, Brazil maintained its status as a country free from Avian Influenza in commercial production, strengthening international confidence in its sanitary defense system and demonstrating technical capability and readiness to face complex crises.

📘 Source: Revista Avicultura, Issue AI1340 – Report featuring Ricardo Santin, President of the International Poultry Council (IPC).

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