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Background

Since 2021, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza has become a serious threat to many wild bird populations, particularly to seabirds. In order to build a stronger network on preparation of HPAI to wild birds, the Avian Working Group participated in the symposium at St. John’s, Canada in June 2025. A side-meeting was convened for discussion on HPAI to wild birds. This side-event is to report the side-meeting, and two other relevant meetings in 2025, and for discussion on how the EAAF countries can better prepare for HPAI.

Objectives

This side meeting provides an opportunity for HPAI and wild bird specialists from EAAF partners to exchange views. The aims were to:

• Explore whether a coordinated global strategy for wild birds is needed.

• Network for global disease surveillance and response.

• Identify lessons learned and gaps from recent outbreaks.

Expected Outcomes

Report on recommendations of actions to be taken at EAAF countries on the HPAI.

Tentative Programme