Important of HPAI (Bird flu) is a national emergency animal disease (EAD) notifiable in all Australian states and territories.

H5N1 is a highly contagious variant of HPAI which is circulating globally causing severe illness and mortality in a wide range of bird species, with known transfer to mammals and risk to humans.

Wild birds:

• can’t stand, walk, or fly properly

• droopy or puffed-up appearance

• breathing problems (panting or sneezing)

• unusual head or neck posture

• sudden death (be aware if 4 plus birds are dead)

Poultry (chickens, ducks, etc)

• sudden drop in egg production

• lethargy or not eating/ drinking

• swollen head or limbs

• bruising on comb, feet or skin

• breathing issues or runny nose

Pet birds and backyard poultry:

• sudden death

• lethargy or not eating/ drinking

• breathing issues or runny nose

• tremors, ataxia and seizures

• vomiting or diarrhoea

Mammals (seals, cows, cats, etc.)

• weakness or tiredness

• trouble walking or

• breathing seizures,

• tremors or walking in circles

• drooling or runny nose

• sudden illness or death

How bird flu spreads:

• Infected birds can spread the virus through body fluids, droppings and feathers.

• In the right conditions, the virus can survive in the environment for months.

• The virus can spread through contaminated clothing and shoes.

• It can also spread through animals, vehicles and equipment, and items like egg cartons.

• Most bird flu strains do not spread easily from animals to people.

• There is no evidence that the current H5 bird flu strain spreads between people.

• Bird flu transmission requires close contact with infected birds or other infected animals, or contaminated environments.

For commercial farms immediately ring your vet AND the EAD (Emergency Animal Disease) HOTLINE open 24/7

1800675888