Overview
- The Agriculture Ministry this week confirmed a wild red fox in the Laguna de Gallocanta reserve died from H5N1, the first mammal case notified in Spain in the current wave.
- Official data count 106 H5N1 outbreaks in Spain from July 1 to November 17, mostly in wild birds, with additional detections in poultry flocks.
- Authorities imposed tighter farm biosecurity on November 13, including a ban on keeping domestic and captive birds outdoors to reduce exposure.
- Veterinary specialists say the fox most likely became infected after scavenging infected bird carcasses, reflecting intense circulation in wild birds.
- Scientists note human infections remain uncommon and currently stem from direct contact with infected birds, with cooked poultry and eggs considered safe when properly heated.