Argentina declares itself free of avian influenza

Argentina has officially declared itself free of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), a significant milestone following the successful containment of the disease in domestic poultry. The National Service of Agrifood Health and Quality (Senasa) confirmed this achievement, submitting the necessary documentation to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OMSA).

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After more than 28 days have passed since the completion of all sanitary tasks in the four outbreaks in poultry that occurred in Ranchos, Lobos, Bolívar (Buenos Aires), and Alejo Ledesma (Córdoba) —which includes depopulation, final disposal, cleaning, and disinfection of the affected farms— and no other case has been registered in commercial establishments, our country has declared itself free of the disease to the OMSA.

The declaration follows the completion of all sanitary tasks at four affected sites in Ranchos, Lobos, Bolívar (Buenos Aires), and Alejo Ledesma (Córdoba). These tasks included depopulation, final disposal of affected birds, and thorough cleaning and disinfection of the farms. With no new cases reported in commercial establishments for over 28 days after these measures were implemented, Argentina has met the criteria to regain its HPAI-free status.

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The document sent details all the actions implemented since Senasa received the notifications of suspicion in commercial establishments, the procedures adopted upon confirmation of the outbreaks —in accordance with Resolution N° 466/2025— and the epidemiological surveillance carried out, which support the status of a free country according to Article 10.4.6 of the OMSA's Terrestrial Animal Health Code.

Senasa's report to the OMSA details the comprehensive actions taken since the initial suspicion of outbreaks. This includes the procedures followed upon confirmation of the outbreaks, adherence to Resolution N° 466/2025, and ongoing epidemiological surveillance. These efforts collectively support Argentina's claim to be free of the disease, as per Article 10.4.6 of the OMSA's Terrestrial Animal Health Code.

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Our country has declared itself free of the disease to the OMSA.

The restoration of Argentina's HPAI-free status is crucial for its international trade in avian products. Senasa has indicated that it will resume negotiations with various partners, aiming to re-establish trade agreements under the condition of being a disease-free country. This will also help maintain confidence in Argentina's surveillance and control systems among importing nations. The domestic poultry industry has welcomed the news, viewing it as a vital step for continued export activities and the reopening of international markets.

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The report constitutes not only an element of transparency for countries importing avian products but also strengthens confidence in Argentina's surveillance and control systems.