04/08/2026
🦜 H5N1 BIRD FLU (AVIAN INFLUENZA): WHAT AUSTRALIANS NEED TO KNOW 🦆
Australia is currently experiencing an outbreak of the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu) in wild birds. While the risk to the general public remains low, this virus can spread rapidly among wild birds and poultry, making awareness and early reporting incredibly important.
⚠️ How you can help protect wildlife, your pets and your community:
🐦 Do not touch or handle sick or dead birds.
📍 Keep your distance and prevent children and pets from approaching them.
📸 If safe to do so, take a photo and note the location.
📞 Report sick or dead wild birds to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline (1800 675 888) or your state's relevant authority.
🐓 If you own backyard chickens or pet birds:
• Keep them separated from wild birds.
• Prevent access to wild bird droppings, food and water sources.
• Maintain excellent hygiene and biosecurity.
• Monitor them closely for signs of illness
❗ Signs of illness in birds may include:
• Sudden death
• Lethargy or weakness
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling around the head or eyes
• Twisting of the neck or difficulty walking
• Reduced appetite or egg production (in poultry)
💚 A few important facts:
• The current Australian outbreak is affecting wild birds, with no confirmed infections in commercial poultry at this time.
• The risk to the general public remains low, and human infections are rare, usually occurring after close, unprotected contact with infected birds.
• Every report helps authorities monitor and respond to the spread of this disease
By staying informed and taking simple precautions, we can all help protect Australia's unique wildlife, our pets and our poultry industries❤️
