Commencement of DEECA H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus notification process
The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) has been working with GMW and other Victorian agencies to prepare for the arrival of the H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus (a strain of the 'bird flu') in Australia.
Though you may have heard media reports of overseas infection, Australia has not yet recorded any cases of H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus. However, the upcoming spring bird migration increases the risk of the virus arriving.
H5N1 differs from previous avian influenza strains as it not only causes substantial deaths in agricultural poultry but can also cause the deaths of large numbers of wild birds and some affected mammals (e.g. seals, dolphins, scavenger species). There is no effective treatment for H5N1 and the prognosis for birds or mammals affected with the disease is poor.
It does not normally infect people, but rare cases of human infection have occurred with some avian influenza viruses.
Monitoring for H5N1
People are asked to be alert to signs of H5N1 in birds in our parks, waterways, and public lands. Monitoring plays a crucial part in early detection of the virus.
Signs of sickness to look for
- Sudden death
- Lack of coordination, tremors, swimming in circles
- Twisted necks or other unusual posture
- Inability to stand or fly
- Diarrhoea
- Difficulty breathing, coughing or sneezing
- Swelling around the head, neck and eyes
- Cloudiness or change in colour of the eyes.
Protect yourself and other wildlife
If you encounter any sick or dead birds, do not touch or move them. Handling infected birds can spread the virus, posing a risk to both you and other wildlife.
Reporting suspected cases
You should immediately report any sightings of sick or dead birds to DEECA by calling 136 186.
This includes:
- Five or more sick or dead wild birds, or
- One or more sick or dead pelicans, birds of prey, or black swans.
You will need to include details such as the location, GPS coordinates, photos of the birds and their surroundings, and notes on any unusual bird behaviour.
Further information
For more information, visit the DEECA website.