The NSW Government has begun a rollout of targeted vaccinations for vulnerable species of birds to help protect them against H5 avian influenza (bird flu).
A combination of insurance populations in captivity and wild populations of birds will be vaccinated, including the Little Penguins in Manly and Barunguba Montague Island.
Taronga Conservation Society Australia vaccinated the first birds this week, with trial cohorts of Little Penguins, Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos and Red-tailed Black Cockatoos among the first species to receive the initial dose of the two-dose vaccine course.
The NSW Government is working with Taronga to vaccinate and monitor wild Little Penguins at Manly Point.
“The unfortunate reality is that H5 bird flu is a significant threat to our native bird populations,” said Premier, Chris Minns.
“While no government can stop the virus from spreading, vaccination programs like this one rolling out at Taronga Zoo are part of our efforts to help protect some of Australia’s most beloved native birds.”
Other wildlife facilities across NSW will join the state’s vaccine program, ensuring as many species as possible can be covered, said the Premier.
The vaccine requires two doses, administered three-to-four weeks apart. Birds in trials must remain in a controlled environment while completing their primary vaccination course and for 14 days following the second dose so they can be closely monitored for any adverse effects.
Minister for the Environment, Penny Sharpe said the NSW Government is continuing to work with wildlife organisations and other relevant partners to assess potential vaccination sites and ensure appropriate infrastructure, safety measures, veterinary oversight and other requirements are in place before vaccination commences,.
“We are deeply concerned about the impact that H5 bird flu could have on our native wildlife,” said Minister Sharpe.
“No government policy can stop this virus form spreading through our wild bird populations. What we can do to support our wildlife is vaccinate insurance populations, protect their habitat and eliminate invasive species.
“From captive wildlife to wild populations, we are carefully considering where vaccination can help protect our precious birds.”
Complementing the broader rollout of vaccinations, Taronga is leading a vaccine trial that will provide valuable data on immune responses, vaccine effectiveness and future vaccination strategies in threatened and zoo-managed birds.
Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Chief Executive, Cameron Kerr AO said the nationally significant effort to help protect some of Australia’s most vulnerable bird species from the threat of H5 Bird Flu.
“As a conservation and science-based organisation, this vaccine trial represents an important opportunity to strengthen the scientific evidence base for avian influenza vaccination in threatened birds,” said Mr Kerr.
“Through this work, Taronga will generate valuable data on the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine across a diverse range of species, helping to inform future disease preparedness and response efforts across Australia’s unique wildlife.”
