The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has confirmed a new outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) in Iran, according to a notification from the country’s veterinary authorities cited by Reuters.
The outbreak occurred in the northern region of Iran, where 10 birds out of a flock of 90 died from the virus. The remaining birds were culled as a preventive measure to contain the disease.
This marks the latest detection of H5N1 in the Middle East, where surveillance efforts remain heightened following a series of outbreaks reported over the past two years in both commercial and backyard poultry.
Global concern over H5N1 remains high as the virus continues to circulate widely across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, impacting trade flows and biosecurity strategies. Avian influenza has caused severe losses in poultry production worldwide, contributing to market volatility, supply shortages, and rising consumer prices.
Authorities in Iran have not yet provided additional details regarding the source of infection or whether wild birds may have played a role in the transmission.
Source: World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) via Reuters, October 7, 2025.
