Second H5 bird flu case detected in Tasmania
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Tasmania has confirmed its second case of H5 bird flu, after the virus was detected in a crested tern on King Island.
The bird was found near Currie on Thursday and tested positive overnight. It was reported through the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline.
Two more crested terns from the same area have since been reported. Their test results are expected on Saturday.
Tasmanian authorities say the virus is the same highly pathogenic H5 strain detected on mainland Australia.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said Tasmania was prepared and taking proactive measures to manage the outbreak.
Authorities have also urged backyard poultry owners to strengthen biosecurity and prevent contact between domestic birds and wild birds.
There have been no H5 bird flu detections in commercial poultry farms in Tasmania.
The state recorded its first case on Thursday, after a migratory brown skua was found at Rocky Cape on the north-west coast.
Authorities are warning the public not to touch sick or dead birds. Sightings should be reported to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
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Source : ABC News
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