What is a major concern related to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI)?

A major concern related to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is the high mortality in affected birds. HPAI is known to cause severe disease and rapid death in avian species, often resulting in devastating losses within affected flocks. This not only impacts animal health but also poses significant risks to the poultry industry, food security, and livelihoods dependent on poultry farming.

The high mortality rates associated with HPAI necessitate prompt and sometimes drastic measures, including culling of infected birds, to control outbreaks and prevent the virus from spreading to other birds and, potentially, to humans. Understanding this concern is critical for managing and mitigating the broader implications of HPAI, particularly in terms of public health and economic stability in agricultural sectors.