Sure, here is the content you requested:
—
The EFTA Surveillance Authority (ESA) has today approved emergency measures implemented by Norwegian authorities to control a new outbreak of highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1, more commonly known as ‘bird flu’. Norway on 12 November 2022 notified a new confirmed outbreak of HPAI on its territory in a holding of approximately 7,500 laying hens on its territory.
[Source](https://www.eftasurv.int/newsroom/updates/esa-approves-norwegian-emergency-measures-control-new-outbreak-avian-influenza)
—
Strategies and guidelines on avian influenza - European Centre for Protective measures and options for public health response; Strategies and guidelines. Guidelines; Preparedness; Occupational health and safety measures; Testing and diagnosis; Surveillance and updates. Reports; Public health situation for avian influenza A(H5) viruses; Risk assessment H5 clade 2.3.4.4b viruses; 2013 novel avian influenza A …
[Source](https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/infectious-disease-topics/avian-influenza/strategies-and-guidelines-avian-influenza)
—
The EU Member states, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland) 1 – referred in this document as Reporting countries – run surveillance programmes t…infection of bird flu between humans, FHI considers an increased risk of the virus may develop the ability to infect people in North America.
The article continues under the adThe article continues under the ad
– The virus is still best adapted to the bird, so in the short term there is little risk of infection between humans. in the longer term, we are concerned that the extensive infection between dairy cows can help make the virus contagious also between humans, says Aavitsland.
– Then the risk of an epidemic among people can suddenly be much greater.
Strengthened cooperation
There has never been infection of bird flu in people in Norway. However, the development in North America and the detection of the virus among animals in Norway have lead to strengthened collaboration between different sectors working with animal and human health in Norway.
The norwegian Institute of Public Health, the Norwegian Food Safety Authority, the Veterinary Institute, the Directorate of Health and the Directorate for Medical Products collaborate closely on both emergency preparedness, outbreak management and monitoring of bird flu in Norway. In addition, efforts are being made to strengthen the emergency preparedness in the field.
[Source](https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsa-journal/pub/6980)
—
Emergency Measures for Controlling Bird Flu in Norway Approved by ESA
The EFTA Surveillance Authority (ESA) has today approved emergency measures implemented by Norwegian authorities to control a new outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, more commonly known as ‘bird flu’. This progress comes after Norway notified a new confirmed outbreak of HPAI on its territory in a holding of approximately 7,500 laying hens on November 12, 2022.
Expert Interview: Understanding the Recent Bird Flu Outbreak
Interview with Dr. Ellen Anderson, Specialist in Veterinary Public health
Introduction to the Outbreak
Editor: Dr. Ellen, the ESA has recently approved emergency measures to control an outbreak of H5N1 bird flu in Norway. Can you provide some context on what this means for public health?
Dr. Ellen Anderson: Yes, the recent outbreak of HPAI H5N1 in Norway underscores the global concern over avian influenza. This specific strain, H5N1, has been of particular concern due to its high pathogenicity. The approval of emergency measures by the ESA indicates a coordinated effort to control the spread and mitigate potential risks to both animal and human health.
International Cooperation and Surveillance
Editor: We’ve seen international cooperation play a critical role in managing such outbreaks. How do surveillance programs in the EU and other regions contribute to controlling bird flu?
Dr. Ellen Anderson: Surveillance programs are indeed crucial for early detection and swift response to outbreaks. EU Member states, including Norway, along with countries like Iceland, Switzerland, and the UK, have robust surveillance systems in place. These programs help monitor the spread of the virus and facilitate a coordinated response. The European center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) provides guidelines and strategies that are essential for effective outbreak management.
Guidelines and Strategies
Editor: Speaking of guidelines, what are some of the key strategies and measures outlined by the ECDC for avian influenza?
Dr. Ellen Anderson: The ECDC provides comprehensive strategies and guidelines that focus on several key areas, including protective measures, occupational health and safety, testing and diagnosis, and surveillance updates. Their guidelines emphasize the importance of preparedness and risk assessment. Specifically, concerns are rising about the H5 clade 2.3.4.4b viruses, which pose a meaningful risk due to their potential to transmit between animals and humans.
Risk Assessment and Public Health
Editor: What kind of risk does the recent HPAI H5N1 outbreak pose to public health, particularly in terms of human-to-human transmission?
Dr. Ellen Anderson: Currently, the H5N1 virus is best adapted to birds, presenting a low immediate risk of human-to-human transmission.However, in the longer term, there are concerns about the virus perhaps developing the ability to infect people. The extensive infection among dairy cows in North America has heightened these concerns, as it suggests a possible pathway for the virus to become contagious among humans. However, there has never been an infection of bird flu in people in Norway, so the risk remains managed through close monitoring and cooperation between health authorities.
Strengthened Cooperation Among Sectors
Editor: Collaboration between different sectors is vital in managing these outbreaks. How is Norway addressing this aspect?
Dr. Ellen Anderson: Norway has indeed strengthened its collaboration between sectors working with animal and human health.Various institutions, including the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, the Norwegian Food Safety Authority, the Veterinary Institute, the Directorate of Health, and the Directorate for Medical Products, work closely together on emergency preparedness, outbreak management, and monitoring of bird flu. This collaboration ensures a comprehensive and synchronized response to any potential threats.
Preparedness and Monitoring
Editor: What efforts are being made to enhance emergency preparedness in Norway?
Dr. Ellen Anderson: Efforts are being made to enhance emergency preparedness both at the central level and in the field. This includes ensuring that all relevant stakeholders are well-informed and equipped to respond quickly and effectively to outbreaks.Preparedness measures involve strict monitoring protocols, enhanced diagnostic capabilities, and training programs for different sectors involved in managing avian influenza.
Conclusion
Editor: What are the main takeaways from this recent development, and what should the public and health authorities be aware of?
Dr. Ellen Anderson: The main takeaways are that while the immediate risk of human infection remains low, the potential long-term risk is a concern that necessitates vigilant surveillance and strong cooperation between sectors. The approved emergency measures are a step towards controlling the outbreak and preventing any potential spread. The public can play a role by staying informed and reporting any suspected cases of avian influenza to the relevant authorities.
Dr. Ellen Anderson emphasizes the importance of preparedness and international cooperation in managing avian influenza outbreaks effectively. As we continue to monitor the situation, it is crucial to stay alert and uphold best practices to ensure the health and safety of both humans and animals.
Related
