Avian Influenza Outbreak in Campi Bisenzio, Italy – March 2026

Florence, Italy – A confirmed outbreak of avian influenza has impacted a poultry farm in Campi Bisenzio, near Florence, prompting a rapid response from local health authorities. Approximately 1,000 birds were culled within a 12-hour period to contain the spread of the virus, as confirmed by ASL Toscana Centro on March 25, 2026.

Rapid Response and Containment Measures

The outbreak was initially flagged by the Perugia Local Health Authority, which had previously diagnosed avian influenza in a farm from which birds were transferred to Campi Bisenzio. Following this report, the Central Tuscany Local Health Authority took samples and sent them to the National Reference Center at the Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Padua. Results confirming the presence of the avian influenza virus were received on Saturday, March 21st, leading to the immediate slaughter of all birds on the affected farm.

A 10-kilometer surveillance zone has been established around the farm, with stricter controls within a 3-kilometer protection zone, restricting animal movement. Health checks are also underway for workers at the facility as a precautionary measure, with those tested placed under active surveillance while awaiting results.

Nature of the Outbreak and Public Health Considerations

The affected farm raised poultry both for slaughter and for repopulation for hunting purposes. Despite no birds exhibiting clinical symptoms prior to testing, authorities proceeded with preventative measures to minimize the risk of further transmission.

ASL Toscana Centro emphasized the precautionary nature of these actions, noting that transmission of avian influenza to humans remains an extremely rare event. To date, there have been no reported cases of the virus spreading to humans in Italy. Health officials maintain a stance of “moderate calm” while closely monitoring the situation and rigorously applying preventative measures. Source: Alanews.it

Previous Avian Influenza Cases in Tuscany

This is not the first instance of avian influenza in Tuscany. In January 2022, a case was identified in a turkey at an animal shelter in the Chico Mendes park in Campi Bisenzio. Source: IZSVe. In December 2025, a modest outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza was detected in a domestic chicken farm in Agliana, in the province of Pistoia. Source: FirenzeToday

Preventative Measures

Authorities recommend the following preventative measures:

• Avoid contact with wild birds or poultry, especially if they appear sick or deceased.
• Do not collect carcasses of birds; report findings to veterinary services.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water, particularly after being in parks, rural areas, or natural environments.
• Limit contact between domestic poultry and wild birds.
• Use dedicated gloves and footwear when caring for poultry.
• Contact veterinary services immediately if observing unusual behavior or sudden mortality in animals.
• Practice good hygiene, including covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding touching eyes, nose, and mouth.

The collaboration of the public is crucial in ensuring the safety of all.