Deadly H5N1 bird flu detected in Victoria for first time
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Victoria has recorded its first detection of the deadly H5N1 bird flu strain, after the virus was found in a wild bird in the state’s south-west.
Agriculture Victoria confirmed the virus was detected in a greater crested tern near Portland. Further testing is being carried out by the CSIRO’s Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness in Geelong to confirm the result.
Victoria’s Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Graeme Cooke said the state has activated its emergency animal disease response plan following the detection.
The H5 strain has spread along Australia’s southern coastline through migratory birds. Cases have already been reported in Western Australia, South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland.
Authorities say the strain has caused significant bird deaths overseas and can also affect some mammals. However, the risk to human health in Australia remains low.
The detection has raised concerns among Victorian poultry producers, who were heavily impacted by the H7N8 bird flu outbreak in 2024, when almost 2 million birds were culled and egg supplies were disrupted.
Farmers have been urged to strengthen biosecurity measures, including keeping equipment and sheds clean, separating new birds, and reducing contact between poultry and wild birds.
Victorian Farmers Federation President Ryan Milgate said farmers had been preparing for a possible outbreak and were ready to respond.
Meanwhile, South Australia has confirmed its 15th H5 bird flu case, detected in a giant petrel at Port Lincoln. All confirmed cases in the state so far have involved wild seabirds, with no infections found in poultry or livestock.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation, with testing underway on additional suspected cases across South Australia.
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Source : ABC News
