Avian influenza H5N1 detected in geese at Athalassa National Forest Park

Authorities in Cyprus have confirmed an outbreak of the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 at the Athalassa National Forest Park in Nicosia. The first case involved a goose found unwell on September 22, which later died and tested positive for the virus on September 28. A second dead goose was subsequently discovered in the same area on September 29, raising concerns about further transmission. Veterinary officials and the Cyprus Veterinary Association are conducting ongoing daily inspections of the park to monitor the situation.

Health experts, including microbiologist Petros Karayiannis, have emphasized that the risk to human health remains very low, as there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission. As a precautionary measure, five individuals who had direct contact with the infected birds—including a citizen and three forestry department staff—are currently undergoing 14-day molecular PCR testing and monitoring, with all initial results returning negative. Officials are urging the public to avoid contact with birds and refrain from feeding them, noting that the illegal release of domesticated geese into the park has exacerbated the risk of virus spread from migrating wild birds to human environments.