Victoria detects H5N1 avian influenza strain

On 30 July, Agriculture Victoria — part of Victoria’s Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action — confirmed that the high pathogenicity avian influenza H5N1 strain (H5 bird flu) has been detected in the state.

“Preliminary testing has indicated H5 bird flu in a single greater crested tern found in Portland. Further genetic testing is underway at CSIRO’s Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness at Geelong to formally confirm this result,” Victoria’s Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Graeme Cooke said.

“This follows confirmation of the disease in seabirds in Western Australia, South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland, and the national decision that H5 bird flu is no longer technically feasible to eradicate in wildlife.

“Following weeks of enhanced readiness, we have now enacted Victoria’s State Emergency Animal Disease Response Plan. Based on international experience, this H5 variant differs from previous strains and has been known to cause large numbers of deaths in wild birds and some mammals.

“Our plans aim to limit impacts where possible, particularly on our most threatened species, while also supporting our farmers and reducing risk to domestic and commercial poultry.

“We need Victorians to avoid contact with sick or dead wildlife, record what they see and report it. Early reporting gives us the best chance to reduce the impacts of the disease.”

Regarding the risk to people, the state’s Chief Health Officer Caroline McElnay said this remains very low, with rare cases of infection occurring through close contact with infected birds, their droppings or contaminated environments.

James Todd, Victoria’s Chief Biodiversity Officer, said the Commonwealth, states and territories had been preparing for a potential detection given the annual movement of migratory birds to Australia.

“Based on overseas experience, this strain can affect large numbers of wild birds and some mammals,” Todd said. “That’s why we’re asking Victorians to report sick or dead wildlife and avoid direct contact with animals that appear unwell.”

Death is the most important sign to be aware of in birds and mammals, Agriculture Victoria advises. Other signs of H5 in birds include: sudden death; lack of coordination; tremors; swimming in circles; twisted necks or unusual posture; inability to stand or fly; diarrhoea; difficulty breathing; coughing or sneezing; swelling around the head, neck or eyes; and cloudy eyes or changes in eye colour.

“If you find sick or dead wild birds, don’t touch them or try to collect them as this can risk more disease spread. Instead, record what you see, the location and take photos or videos, and report,” Cooke advised poultry owners.

All reports should be made via the Agriculture Victoria website at agriculture.vic.gov.au/birdflu or by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline: 1800 675 888.

Image credit: iStock.com/koto_feja. Stock image used is for illustrative purposes only.