Scientific Task Force on Avian Influenza and Wild Birds statement on:
H5N1 High pathogenicity avian influenza in wild birds - Unprecedented conservation impacts and urgent needs
July 2023

This statement, from the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Co-Convened Scientific Task Force on Avian Influenza and Wild Birds (‘Task Force’), is released in response to the extensive and large-scale outbreaks and global spread of H5N1 high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) in wild birds. The purpose is to inform stakeholders in governments, disease control, wildlife management, site management, conservation and poultry sectors about HPAI viruses in wild birds and appropriate responses. The statement provides firstly a situation update and secondly recommendations and guidance for those responding to the threat of HPAI to wild birds.