DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS OF GLOBAL OUTBREAKS OF DISEASES IN WILD ANIMALS REPORTED TO THE WOAH (2025–2026)

Abstract

Disease outbreaks in wild animals represent an important challenge for animal health, biodiversity conservation, and global public health. In this context, international animal health reporting systems play a key role in epidemiological surveillance. This study aimed to perform a descriptive analysis of disease outbreaks in wild animals reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health between 2025 and 2026. This was a descriptive epidemiological study based on secondary data obtained from the organization's official animal health notification platform. Data were organized in an electronic spreadsheet and analyzed using absolute and relative frequencies. A total of 22 outbreaks were identified across 18 countries, with most reports occurring in Europe. Avian influenza was the most frequently notified disease, followed by other viral and bacterial diseases of sanitary importance. The outbreaks involved different taxonomic groups of wild animals, particularly birds. Overall, the findings highlight the wide geographic distribution and etiological diversity of diseases affecting wildlife, emphasizing the importance of epidemiological surveillance in wild animal populations and international sharing of animal health information.