The NSW Government is responding to three new events of H5 bird flu after samples taken from terns at Long Jetty and Nowra, and a silver gull at Merimbula all returned positive results.
The new events bring NSW to a total of 55 H5 bird flu events.
The NSW Government continues to work closely with Australian and State and Territory governments to roll out the plans developed with industry, agriculture and wildlife organisations.
“We know people can be concerned when they hear about new H5 bird flu detections, but these findings are exactly why we have a robust surveillance program in place,” said Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Jo Coombe.
“The best thing people can do is remain aware, avoid handling sick or dead birds and wildlife, and report anything unusual via the online reporting form or through the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline.
“Our teams assess every report and use that information to guide surveillance and response activities across NSW. Early reporting gives us the best opportunity to understand disease activity.
“I also want to acknowledge the thousands of people who have been keeping a watchful eye out and reporting sick or dead wildlife. Their efforts are helping us to monitor the spread of disease.”
The Government is continuing to receive many calls and online reports to the Emergency Animal Disease hotline and key stakeholders are being briefed regularly on the current situation.
If you see 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.
For more information about H5 bird flu visit the NSW Government’s dedicated webpage: Bird Flu (H5 avian influenza).
For the latest event data, visit the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry H5 Bird Flu website: Bird flu (avian influenza) – DAFF.
