In short:
A Greater Crested Tern found in Werribee on 23 August has tested positive for H5 bird flu, confirming a detection in Wyndham. Australia had recorded 330 positive H5 bird flu events in wildlife as of 25 August, including 100 in Victoria.
First Case In Wyndham
Wyndham has recorded a confirmed case of H5 bird flu, with a Greater Crested Tern found in Werribee testing positive for the virus.
The wild bird was found on 23 August, adding Wyndham to the growing list of locations affected as authorities track the spread of H5 bird flu through wildlife across Australia.
The local detection comes amid hundreds of confirmed events nationwide.
As of 4pm AEST on 25 August, Australia had recorded 330 positive H5 bird flu events in wildlife.
South Australia has recorded the most with 195, followed by Victoria with 100. New South Wales has recorded 13, Western Australia and Tasmania have each recorded 10, while Queensland has recorded two.
The Victorian Government has advised Wyndham City Council of the local detection, with community reports playing an important role in monitoring the spread.
Residents who encounter sick or dead birds or other wildlife are being told not to touch or move them.
(The beloved local Black Swans are among the native birds susceptible to H5 bird flu).
Keep Pets Away From Sick Birds
Instead, people should record the exact location and what they observed before reporting the incident to Agriculture Victoria online or through the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Authorities are also urging dog owners to keep their pets away from sick or dead birds and wildlife while out walking.
People who keep backyard chickens are being advised to limit their birds’ contact with wild birds and take measures to reduce the risk of the virus spreading between populations.
Despite the increasing number of wildlife detections, authorities say the risk of bird flu to people in Australia remains low.
Bird flu is also not considered a food safety risk from chicken meat or eggs when they are handled and cooked correctly.
The Werribee case comes as authorities continue surveillance and testing of wild bird populations across Victoria and other parts of the country.
Anyone who encounters sick or dead wildlife is being urged to follow the three-step advice: avoid, record and report.
