The H5N1 strain of avian influenza (bird flu) has been detected in Australia for the first time, the country’s agriculture ministry has confirmed today (Saturday, June 20).<\/p>\n
Testing at the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP) confirmed the H5N1 bird flu strain in a brown skua in Western Australia.<\/p>\n
Samples from a second bird, a giant petrel, have also tested positive at the Western Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development\u2019s laboratory.<\/p>\n
These species are migratory seabird species that occasionally visit southern Australia.<\/p>\n
This means that the H5N1 bird flu strain has now been detected on every continent on the plant.<\/p>\n
Bird flu<\/p>\n
Agriculture Minister Julie Collins\u00a0said that both species were found in an isolated area in a national park near Esperance, and were cared for in isolation.<\/p>\n
The Western Australia Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is leading on-ground activities and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is supporting national coordination.<\/p>\n
In a statement, Minister Collins said a key priority is to undertake surveillance to determine the extent of the infection in wildlife.<\/p>\n
She added that there have been no detections in poultry and there is no evidence of mass mortality at this time.<\/p>\n
“Australia\u2019s response is designed to manage the risks of H5 bird flu, to protect poultry production, and reduce impacts on wildlife and communities,” the minister said.<\/p>\n
Australia<\/p>\n
A dedicated Australian government taskforce was established in 2024 to strengthen preparedness for a possible incursion of the virus in the country.<\/p>\n
A series of national simulation exercises have also taken place in recent years.<\/p>\n
Minister Collins has encouraged the public to report any dead or sick birds or animals showing signs of bird flu.<\/p>\n
\n“The Australian government is well prepared for a potential outbreak of H5 bird flu, with well-established national response arrangements in place to respond to emergency animal diseases, including H5 bird flu.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
“We take the risks of H5 bird flu seriously which is why our government has invested more than $113 million to strengthen our nation\u2019s preparedness,” she said.<\/p>\n
Australian chief veterinary officer, Dr Beth Cookson added:<\/p>\n
\n“This detection is being taken seriously, and Australia has been preparing for this scenario for several years.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
\u201cAustralia is well prepared to respond to H5 bird flu and will react quickly, to protect poultry production, and reduce impacts on wildlife and communities.”<\/p>\n
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