Avian Influenza A(H3N8)

Supply-chain Risk Briefing

1. Summary

A third case of avian influenza A(H3N8) human infection has been confirmed in China (WHO report, March 27, 2023). Currently limited to sporadic outbreaks within China, with no additional infections confirmed among close contacts, but classified as moderate supply-chain risk.

2. Supply-chain impact

• Agriculture and livestock sector: Potential impact on poultry farming and related feed supply chains within China
• Food processing industry: Risk of production disruptions or delays due to enhanced quarantine measures at poultry-related food processing facilities
• Logistics networks: Possible transportation delays due to strengthened quarantine procedures for agricultural and livestock products from China
• Pharmaceutical and biotech sector: Increased volatility in raw material supply due to rising demand for vaccine development and epidemic prevention supplies

3. Watch points

• Spread patterns: Occurrence of additional human infection cases within China and scope of regional spread
• Prevention measures: Level of Chinese government restrictions on poultry-related industries and border quarantine reinforcement
• International response: Possibility of WHO and major countries implementing import restrictions on Chinese agricultural and livestock products