Bird Flu Detected in Arctic Foxes in Svalbard

The Norwegian Veterinary Institute has detected highly pathogenic bird flu virus in four Arctic fox pups. The area where the pups were found is near the Russian settlement of Barentsburg in Svalbard. This is the first time the virus has been detected in Arctic foxes in Norway.

At the end of July 2025, the Governor of Svalbard received a report of several sick Arctic foxes. Three sick pups were initially observed, and two of these were euthanized for animal welfare reasons. Due to the proximity to Barentsburg and increased rabies vigilance, the rest of the litter was euthanized. Of the three remaining pups, one was sick. In addition, three adult Arctic foxes near the den were euthanized.

Arctic foxes can become infected with the bird flu through direct contact with sick or dead animals.

If the population of Svalbard observes sick animals, it is important that the findings are reported to the Governor of Svalbard.

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