Avian influenza detected in arctic foxes in Svalbard
The Norwegian Veterinary Institute has detected highly pathogenic avian influenza virus in four arctic fox pups from an area 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 near the Russian settlement of Barentsburg. 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.
H5N5 is circulating in the high north
The arctic foxes were sent to the Veterinary Institute for testing for rabies and avian influenza viruses. The analyses showed that all the foxes were negative for rabies virus, while four arctic fox pups were positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza virus. The virus detected is of the subtype H5N5, a subtype that circulates in the high north and has caused cases of disease in both wild birds and mammals in the Nordic countries, Iceland and the United Kingdom in recent years. The subtype was detected in a walrus in Svalbard in 2023.
High infection pressure when they eat infected birds
Arctic foxes can become infected with avian influenza through direct contact with sick or dead animals. Foxes are scavengers that are exposed to high infection pressure when they eat infected birds. Studies of red foxes on the mainland indicate that foxes do not have the ability to infect each other. Whole-genome sequencing of the viruses from arctic fox pups will be carried out to investigate whether there are signs of mammalian adaptation in the viruses.
May resemble rabies infection
Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus can cause clinical signs of brain disease and are similar to those seen in rabies infection. Neurological signs such as circling gait, head tilt, paralysis and decreased shyness towards humans are common. Both highly pathogenic avian influenza and rabies are serious diseases that can infect humans, and it is therefore important to avoid contact with sick animals.
Report findings to the Governor
If the population of Svalbard observes sick animals, it is important that the findings are reported to the Governor on tel. 79 02 12 22. Feel free to take a picture or video that can show the behaviour of the animal. Also state its position. Avoid close contact with the animal.