High pathogenicity avian influenza and vaccination: application in Europe Region

The main objectives of the presentation of Technical Item II during the 30th Conference of the WOAH Regional Commission for Europe (Catania, Italy, 3–7 October 2022) are (i) to set the proper framework of questions to make science-based decisions regarding the vaccination policy against infection with highly pathogenicity avian influenza viruses (HPAI) in Europe, and (ii) to organise the mechanism which would support WOAH and Members in addressing these questions. It is not to set specific vaccine choices or recommendations on types of vaccines to apply.

This paper presents the state of the art and draws together the key factors that need to be considered as relevant for the Region when defining vaccination policy.