In short:
Victoria is preparing for the possible arrival of the deadly H5 bird flu strain after new detections in Western Australia and South Australia. Authorities are urging residents to report sick or dead birds quickly to help protect native wildlife and the state’s poultry industry.
Victorians Urged to Report Bird Sickness
Victoria is on heightened alert after a third case of the deadly H5 strain of bird flu was confirmed in a migratory seabird, raising concerns the virus could eventually spread to the state’s native wildlife.
The latest detection was confirmed in a giant petrel found at Knights Beach on South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula, following two earlier cases in wild migratory birds near Esperance in Western Australia.
While there are still no confirmed cases in Victoria, authorities say the virus has now reached Australia’s southern coastline for the first time.
The H5 strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza has devastated bird populations across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas in recent years, killing millions of wild birds and poultry.
It is considered one of the most serious avian influenza viruses because it spreads rapidly among birds and can also infect some mammal species.
Community Vigilance Required
Victorian authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant, particularly as migratory birds continue arriving across the state.
Victoria’s Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Graeme Cooke said there had been no detections in Victoria, but the interstate cases reinforced the need for early reporting.
“There have been no detections in Victoria, but this event in Western Australia is a timely reminder that the risk exists and vigilance is essential.”
“If you see something unusual, don’t ignore it. Avoid contact, record the details and report it so it can be investigated.”
“Please report clusters of five or more sick or dead birds anywhere in Victoria to Agriculture Victoria.”
“We also want to hear about even a single case involving higher-risk species including pelicans, birds of prey such as hawks, owls and eagles, black swans, or marine animals like seals, sea lions and dolphins.”
Consequences Could be “Devastating”
Victoria’s Chief Biodiversity Officer James Todd said overseas experience showed the virus could have devastating consequences for wildlife once established.
“Based on overseas experience, this disease can spread through bird populations and potentially other wildlife once it is established, which is why early detection and strong preparedness are so important.”
“We’ve seen internationally that H5 bird flu can have significant impacts on wildlife, particularly bird populations, and can also affect some mammal species.”
The Victorian Government is working with industry, wildlife experts and land managers to strengthen surveillance and prepare for any potential arrival of the virus.
Residents are reminded not to touch, move or collect sick or dead birds or wildlife.
More Details, Better Response
Instead, if it is safe to do so, they should record the location, date, time, the number and type of animals involved, and take photos or video before reporting the sighting.
Reports of five or more sick or dead birds anywhere in Victoria should be made to Agriculture Victoria.
Even a single sick or dead pelican, bird of prey, black swan or marine mammal should also be reported due to their higher risk.
Suspected cases can be reported by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 or online here.
Authorities say rapid reporting is critical to helping protect Victoria’s native wildlife, poultry industry and broader ecosystem should the virus reach the state.
