United Kingdom: H5N1 Avian Influenza Continues in UK and First Human Case Reported

The United Kingdom (UK) is currently experiencing a significant outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). Having entered the UK via the wild migratory bird population in October 2021, it has now spread to commercial poultry flocks. As of January 18, 2022, there are 68 cases in England, five in Scotland, three in Wales, and five in Northern Ireland. This compares with just 26 infected premises over the entirety of the 2020-21 winter season. On January 6, the UK Health Security Agency (HSA) confirmed a case of bird-to-human transmission but advised the risk to the wider public from avian influenza continues to be very low.