02/08/2026
🐦 H5N1 (Bird Flu) Information Update
This post is intended to inform our community, not create panic.
You may have seen recent news about H5N1 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (Bird Flu). We now have increased focus on surveillance and biosecurity due to the global spread of the disease.
At Aura Veterinary Hospital, we’re committed to keeping our patients, clients, staff and local wildlife safe while providing you with the latest advice.
🦜 What should you do if you find a sick or dead wild bird?
If you come across a bird that appears unwell or has died:
❌ Do not touch, move or transport the bird unless absolutely necessary.
📍 If it is safe to do so:
• Note the location.
• Take a photo from a distance if possible.
• Observe any signs such as difficulty breathing, inability to stand, tremors or multiple sick/dead birds in one area.
📞 Report sick or dead wild birds to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 for advice.
Remember, not every sick bird has bird flu. Birds can become ill or injured for many different reasons, but reporting unusual cases helps protect Australia’s wildlife and poultry industries.
🐓 How can you keep your pet birds and backyard chickens safe?
✔️ Minimise contact with wild birds.
✔️ Keep food and water covered so wild birds cannot access it.
✔️ Clean food bowls, drinkers and enclosures regularly.
✔️ Wash your hands before and after handling your birds.
✔️ Isolate any bird that suddenly becomes sick.
✔️ Contact your veterinarian before bringing your bird to the clinic.
To help protect all of our patients and staff, please do not bring sick wild birds directly into the hospital.
Instead:
📞 Call us before you arrive.
Our team will:
✅ Discuss your bird’s history and clinical signs.
✅ Determine whether the bird requires veterinary care or should be reported to the appropriate authorities.
✅ Advise you on the safest way to transport the bird if needed.
✅ Arrange a safe entry plan where appropriate to minimise any biosecurity risk.
This procedure helps protect:
❤️ Your pets
❤️ Other hospital patients
❤️ Our staff
❤️ Local wildlife
Thank you for helping us keep our community safe while continuing to care for Australia’s incredible wildlife.
If you have any questions or concerns about a sick bird, please don’t hesitate to contact the Aura Veterinary Hospital team. We’re here to help. 🩵
