Avian Influenza: Emergency Situation Update

The Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) confirms that all procedures outlined in the National Contingency Plan for Avian Influenza are being executed effectively. 

In the 10-kilometer surveillance zone established around the outbreak site in Rio Grande do Sul, property inspections are progressing at an accelerated pace. Within the 3-kilometer perifocal zone, 29 out of 30 properties have already been inspected, with full coverage expected by the end of today (May 18). In the extended surveillance area—spanning from 3 to 10 kilometers—238 of the 510 registered properties have undergone inspection. 

Only one suspected case has been identified during these inspections. It is located within the perifocal zone on a subsistence farm. While the case is receiving full attention from MAPA's Agricultural Defense team, it has no impact on international trade or the safety of inspected food products. 

Samples from the suspected case are being transported to the Federal Agricultural Defense Laboratory in Campinas, São Paulo (LFDA-SP), and will be processed tomorrow (May 19). Preliminary results are expected by the end of the day. 

At the confirmed outbreak site, all poultry and eggs have been culled, and thorough cleaning and disinfection procedures are currently underway. 

Of the seven planned animal movement control checkpoints, five have been installed. Four of the six disinfection stations are also operational. Full implementation of all barriers is expected by tomorrow (May 19). 

MAPA has also completed the traceability of eggs originating from the affected facility. Their destruction is in progress, after which disinfection procedures will begin at the three related hatcheries. 

In addition, a separate investigation is ongoing at a property in Aguiarnópolis, Tocantins. Preliminary laboratory analysis has confirmed the presence of Influenza A. However, given the epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory indicators, the likelihood of it being a highly pathogenic strain is considered low. The investigation is ongoing, and movement control measures have been enacted to ensure the situation remains contained and under proper surveillance. 

MAPA underscores that suspected case investigations are routine within Brazil’s Agricultural Defense system. In the context of a declared emergency, the system is placed on heightened alert, which may lead to a temporary increase in investigations. This proactive posture reflects the robustness of Brazil’s animal health infrastructure, which operates with efficiency, transparency, and a commitment to protecting both national food security and international trade.


Press information
imprensa@agro.gov.br