Avian Influenza (H5N1), also known as bird flu, has now been confirmed in Australia, with cases detected in Western Australia, South Australia and New South Wales in a migratory seabird that feeds by scavenging.
While Wildlife A.R.C. is based on the NSW Central Coast, this is important for our region. H5N1 is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread between animals and, in rare circumstances, to people. It also has the potential to be devastating for Australia’s unique wildlife.
Effective immediately, our bird rescuers and rehabilitators will be using distance assessments (assessing some situations from a safe distance before handling an animal), personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks and eye protection, and strict quarantine protocols to help prevent potential disease transmission between animals.
Following advice from the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline, if concerns are raised about a local bird or wildlife case, we may need to delay a rescue response while we assess the safest course of action or work with veterinary practices that are following their own disease control protocols.
Please be patient and understanding as we navigate this evolving situation together, and do not place yourself at risk by handling sick or dead birds or wildlife. We will continue to share updates as we learn more.
What you should continue to do:
- Always keep dogs on a leash and away from sick or dead birds or wildlife.
- Be aware of the signs that should be reported, including:
- Five or more sick or dead wild birds of any species
- Two or more sick or dead backyard poultry or pet birds
- Be especially alert if the affected animals are among these higher-risk species:
- Penguins
- Pelicans
- Raptors (birds of prey)
- Black Swans
- Migratory seabirds
- Marine scavenging birds
- Marine mammals
Please stay up to date with the latest advice from Wildlife Health Australia, the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, and the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.
