Colombian Agricultural Institute – ICA

Table of Contents

• The ICA confirms an outbreak of avian influenza that does NOT affect national production and calls for strengthening control measures in the country
  • What is Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)?
  • Impact on National Production and Consumption
  • ICA’s Response and Control measures
  • Call for Collaboration
• Key Takeaways

Bogotá DC, December 3, 2025. The Colombian Agricultural Institute (ICA) confirms the detection of an outbreak of highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in backyard birds, constituting the first case reported in 2025 in the department of Sucre. this outbreak does not represent a risk to national production, so the consumption of eggs and chicken meat in the country is not compromised.

This case was identified in a timely manner thanks to passive surveillance actions and prompt notification by the owner of the affected farm. The ICA instantly activated the protocols established in the Avian influenza Surveillance and Control Program (PISA), which includes epidemiological inquiry, zoning, and biosecurity measures.

What is Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)?

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is a highly contagious viral disease affecting birds. Different strains exist,varying in severity. HPAI strains are notably hazardous because they can cause high mortality rates in poultry and, though rare, can sometimes infect humans. The virus is spread through direct contact with infected birds, their feces, or contaminated environments.

Impact on National Production and Consumption

The ICA emphasizes that this outbreak is limited to backyard birds and does not pose a threat to Colombia’s commercial poultry production. Colombia has robust biosecurity measures in place for large-scale poultry farms, significantly reducing the risk of widespread infection. Therefore, consumers can continue to safely consume eggs and chicken meat.

ICA’s Response and Control measures

The ICA is implementing the following measures to control the outbreak and prevent further spread:

• Epidemiological Investigation: Tracing the source of the infection and identifying potential contacts.
• Zoning: Establishing a control zone around the affected area to restrict the movement of birds and poultry products.
• Biosecurity Reinforcement: strengthening biosecurity measures in poultry farms and encouraging responsible bird ownership practices.
• Surveillance: increasing surveillance in surrounding areas to detect any additional cases.
• Euthanasia: Humanely euthanizing infected birds to prevent further spread of the virus.

Call for Collaboration

The ICA urges poultry farmers, bird owners, and the general public to report any unusual bird deaths or symptoms to the nearest ICA office. Early detection and reporting are crucial for effective control of the disease.

“We are prepared to address this situation and protect Colombia’s poultry industry,” stated the ICA Director. “Collaboration between government agencies,producers,and the public is essential to prevent the spread of avian influenza.”

Key Takeaways

• An outbreak of HPAI has been confirmed in backyard birds in Sucre, Colombia.
• national poultry production and egg/chicken meat consumption are not at risk.
• The ICA has activated its Avian Influenza Surveillance and Control Program (PISA).
• Public reporting of unusual bird deaths is crucial.