From June to July, highly pathogenic avian influenza of the type H5N1 has been diagnosed in several locations in Finland, according to the Finnish Food Authority. The disease has been detected especially in seagulls. In addition, the disease caused by the virus has been detected in farmed fur animals in South and Central Ostrobothnia. At the moment, the infection has been diagnosed on twelve fur farms. Authorities say investigations will continue.

Under the Animal Diseases Act, the Finnish Food Authority has established an infected zone to prevent further spread of the disease. In addition to the regions of Southwest Finland, Satakunta, South Ostrobothnia, Ostrobothnia and Central Ostrobothnia, the infected zone now also covers the regions of Uusimaa, Kanta-Häme, Pirkanmaa and Päijät-Häme. The decision is valid immediately.