The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has unveiled an interactive dashboard to track cases of avian influenza A(H5N1) across the Americas. 

This tool provides real-time data on outbreaks among humans, birds, and mammals, offering vital support to public and animal health authorities in their efforts to curb the spread of the disease.

The dashboard includes comprehensive maps and tables that detail outbreaks across the region. Data on animal cases is sourced from the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), while human case information is drawn from official reports by member countries. By integrating these resources, the dashboard strengthens active surveillance initiatives, enabling better preparedness and timely responses to potential human transmission.

Between January and December 2024, the platform recorded 66 confirmed human cases in the United States and one in Canada. In addition, more than 1,300 outbreaks in domestic and wild birds and mammals were documented across various countries in the region. These findings highlight the scale of the challenge and the importance of robust monitoring systems.

In December 2024, PAHO released a risk assessment on the potential occurrence of zoonotic avian influenza A(H5N1) in Latin America and the Caribbean. The organization classified the risk as moderate, emphasizing that while no human-to-human transmission has been identified, the threat posed by the disease remains significant.

The dashboard goes beyond merely tracking cases by also providing information on symptoms exhibited by affected patients. This level of detail equips public health officials with the insights needed to make informed decisions and respond effectively during outbreaks.

To complement the dashboard, PAHO has also published a timeline documenting key developments in avian influenza across the Americas from 2020 to December 2024. This historical context underscores the ongoing efforts to monitor and manage the disease in the region.

As concerns over avian influenza A(H5N1) grow, tools like PAHO’s dashboard are invaluable for ensuring regional and global collaboration. Accurate, real-time information is essential for mitigating the impact of zoonotic diseases, protecting public health, and safeguarding ecosystems.