Wild birds likely carried highly pathogenic avian influenza across the Atlantic Ocean

Science · Published 19 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Researchers who analyzed the genetic lineage of H5N1 avian influenza found that a strain detected in Canada in late 2021 originated in northwestern Europe. By tracing the virus's evolution, they identified it as a member of the GsGd lineage, which has been spreading across several continents.

The study used phylogenetic analysis to link the Canadian outbreak to viruses circulating in Europe during the spring of 2021. Based on wild bird migration patterns, the researchers suggested the virus likely traveled via routes involving Iceland, Greenland, or open ocean paths. While this provides a clear geographical path for the spread, it remains an inference based on migration data rather than direct observation of the transit.

This finding highlights how migratory pathways can facilitate the rapid transcontinental movement of dangerous pathogens. It underscores the risk of further inland spread across North America as these viruses continue to move through wild bird populations.

Why it matters: Migratory birds can act as long-distance transport for dangerous viruses, moving them across oceans in a matter of months.

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