The NSW Government is responding to eight new events of H5 bird flu after samples were taken from Greater Crested Terns at Randwick, Cronulla, Port Botany, Milton, Berry, Kiama and Forster, and a Myna in Berry.
The new events take NSW to a total of 40 H5 bird flu events. There are currently 542 reported across Australia.
“H5 bird flu will continue to pose a serious challenge for native bird populations,” said Minister for the Environment, Penny Sharpe.
“The NSW Government is continuing targeted vaccination of vulnerable species, as well as surveillance and preparedness to reduce the risk of further impacts on our native wildlife.
“If you see a sick or dead bird, do not approach it. Record the details from a safe distance and report it through the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline.”
A national surveillance plan is in operation to monitor for any further detections and facilitate rapid, coordinated response.
Bird flu has not been detected in commercial poultry flocks or captive birds and the risk to human health remains low.
The NSW Government is reminding people with backyard poultry and pet birds to:
- maintain clean housing for birds
- provide clean, chlorinated domestic water and keep birds away from natural water sources
- limit wild bird contact and place food and water inside shelters
- quarantine new birds.
Dog and cat owners should also undertake basic biosecurity measures such as:
- keepings dogs on a leash in wildlife areas where birds are found
- keeping cats indoors or in secure enclosures
- reducing contact between pets and wildlife
- washing your hands with soap and water before and after handling birds or other animals.
The NSW Government says it is continuing to receive many calls and online reports to the Emergency Animal Disease hotline and key stakeholders are being briefed regularly.
If a person sees sick or dead wild birds, domestic birds, marine mammals or other wildlife showing signs of H5 bird flu – AVOID contact, RECORD what you see, REPORT it via the online reporting form or Emergency Animal Disease Hotline – 1800 675 888.
The Chief Veterinary Officer has advised the poultry industry that at this stage there is a housing recommendation for poultry.
For more information about H5 bird flu visit the NSW Government’s dedicated webpage: Bird Flu (H5 avian influenza).
