#19,234
Overnight Australia has confirmed the previously suspected H5 detection on NSW's Bennetts Beach, bringing the number of confirmed detections in Australian birds to 6. There are, however, hundreds of as-yet uninvestigated reports of dead birds in WA alone.
This report from New South Wales is concerning because they are the largest poultry producing state in the the country, producing nearly 40% of the nation's chicken meat and 1/3rd of its eggs.This from NWS's DPIRD (Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development).
New South Wales is responding to a confirmed detection of H5 bird flu in a giant petrel found near Hawks Nest. This is the first confirmed detection of H5 bird flu in NSW.The NSW Government is working in collaboration with other jurisdictions and the Australian Government, with increased surveillance now underway.At this stage, bird flu has not been detected in commercial poultry flocks, captive birds or any other birds in NSW. There is no evidence of any mass mortality in wildlife or spread to other animals.Confirmed Australian cases to date:
- Western Australia: 4 confirmed
- South Australia: 1 confirmed
- New South Wales: 1 confirmed
This strain of avian influenza has had significant impacts overseas, causing widespread mortality in poultry, wild birds and some mammals.It is important that we all continue to remain vigilant and report any sick or dead poultry, wild birds or wildlife.If you see sick or dead birds or other animals, do not touch them.Avoid contact. Record what you see. Report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 from anywhere in Australia.Australia has well-established national response arrangements in place to respond to animal disease incidents, including H5 bird flu.The NSW Government is reminding poultry producers that on-farm biosecurity practices are crucial to protect the health of their flocks.For more information, visit Bird flu (Avian influenza) - DAFF.
