This paper provides an update on the current status and known impacts of High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Antarctica, based on a joint Working Paper submitted by SCAR, COMNAP, IAATO and CCAMLR to ATCM 47 (WP050 2025). HPAI is confirmed in wildlife in the Antarctic Treaty Area (ATA). Data from two Antarctic seasons indicate that the virus (HPAI H5N1) is reaching new geographical regions and spreading across Antarctic species.
Further to the 2024 information (SC-CAMLR-43/BG/33 Update on High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean), this paper provides HPAI updates from the 2024/25 season, reemphasises the recommendations agreed by the ATCM in 2024, and presents additional recommendations that were considered and adopted at ATCM 47.