Deadly Bird Flu Outbreak Strikes Israel at the Beginning of the Year

Deadly Bird Flu Outbreak Strikes Israel at the Beginning of the Year 2026

A deadly outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu has once again been reported in Israel at the start of the year. According to The Jerusalem Post, the virus was detected at a poultry farm in northern Israel, resulting in the death of 90 ducks.

On Tuesday, the report stated that nearly 2,000 ducks at a farm located in a village in northern Israel were affected by the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The Times of Israel initially confirmed the deaths, while the remaining ducks have been quarantined and isolated to prevent further transmission of the disease.

Health and veterinary authorities are closely monitoring the situation, as sudden outbreaks of highly pathogenic bird flu pose not only a serious threat to the poultry industry but also raise potential risks to human health. Experts warn that mutations or close human exposure to infected birds could increase the likelihood of zoonotic transmission.

Israel has experienced multiple bird flu outbreaks in recent years, particularly during the winter months when migratory birds travel through the region. These outbreaks often lead to economic losses, culling of poultry, and heightened biosecurity measures across farms.

Specialists have urged the Israeli government to take immediate and effective containment measures, including enhanced surveillance, strict farm biosecurity protocols, and public awareness campaigns to reduce the risk of further spread.

Source: The Jerusalem Post