Virolahti, Finland – Fifteen swans have died from avian influenza (bird flu) in Virolahti, marking an unusually large outbreak for the region, according to the Finnish Food Agency. The H5N1 virus is suspected to be the cause, mirroring a wider spread of the disease across Europe and increased cases compared to last year.
The outbreak in Virolahti is part of a larger pattern of bird flu cases recently confirmed in Finland, including detections in Pieksämäki and Oulu. While the number of cases this year is higher than in 2023, it remains lower than the over 60 cases reported in 2021.Food Agency special expert Tiia Tuupanen suggests a possible mutation of the virus may be contributing to the increase in cases observed throughout europe.
The virus has also caused widespread mortality of cranes in Germany, and has spread to poultry farms in various European countries. Surveillance veterinarians believe other sick or dead birds in the Virolahti area likely also carry the virus.
bird flu does not easily transmit to humans, requiring direct contact with infected birds or their secretions. Human infections typically result in mild respiratory illness or conjunctivitis. Authorities advise the public to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and to ensure children and pets do not access them. The first report of the confirmed case in Virolahti was published by Kymen Sanomat.
