Avian Influenza in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs): Outbreaks, Vaccination Challenges and Economic Impact

Avian influenza (AI) outbreaks pose severe challenges to low and middle-income countries such as Nepal, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Ghana, South Africa, and Indonesia, leading to profound economic crises with far-reaching consequences. The multifaceted impacts of AI outbreaks on low-income economies shed light on the intricate relationship between disease control and financial stability. By reviewing the implications for the poultry industry, trade restrictions, food security, public health, government legislation, and socio-economic vulnerabilities, we provide a comprehensive overview of the economic ramifications of AI outbreaks. AI outbreaks cause substantial disruptions in the poultry industry, resulting in significant financial losses for farmers and related businesses. The poultry sector contributes 4%, 1.4-1.6%, 6-8%, and 14% to the national GDPs of Nepal, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Ghana respectively. Imposing trade restrictions on affected regions also hampers international trade, reducing revenue and foreign exchange earnings. This, in turn, affects food security as poultry products serve as vital sources of protein and nutrition in low and middle-income countries. Moreover, AI outbreaks adversely impact environmental sustainability by culling infected birds.