Fourth Standing Group of Experts on Avian Influenza

On June 11, the 4th Meeting of the Permanent Group of Experts on Avian Influenza of the GF-TADs of the Americas was held virtually. 

Context:

The 4th Meeting of the GF-TADs Americas Avian Influenza Standing Group of Experts (SGE-AI) brought together international organizations and technical experts to assess the situation of highly pathogenic avian influenza, which remains a major threat, with an increase in outbreaks and the predominance of H5N1. Progress in surveillance, diagnostics, and regional coordination was reviewed, highlighting the need to strengthen capacities, particularly in genomics and monitoring in mammals. Advances in intersectoral coordination were also discussed, along with results from OFFLU’s AIM project, which show increasing antigenic diversity and reinforce the importance of updating vaccines as part of comprehensive control strategies.

Meeting objectives:

• Analyze the current global and regional situation of HPAI, including recent trends and key risks.
• Review progress and challenges in surveillance, diagnostics, genomics, and monitoring at the human-animal interface.
• Assess progress in regional and intersectoral coordination and strengthen capacities for a comprehensive response.
• Consider recent evidence on antigenic diversity and its implications for vaccination strategies.

Who participated:

The meeting brought together technical experts designated by countries in the Americas, representatives of international organizations (WOAH, FAO, OIRSA, IICA, CAHFSA, PAHO/WHO-PANAFTOSA, OFFLU), reference laboratories from Brazil, Canada, and the United States, as well as regional diagnostic networks.

More information:

• Agenda
• Report
• Recommendations
• Presentations

WOAH: World Organisation for Animal Health; FAO: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations; ICA: Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture; OIRSA: International Regional Organization for Agricultural Health; PAHO‑PANAFTOSA: Pan American Center for Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Veterinary Public Health; CAHFSA: Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency and OFFLU: WOAH/FAO Network of Expertise on Animal Influenzas.