Sydney, Australia: Australian authorities have intensified surveillance after New South Wales (NSW) reported its first suspected case of the highly pathogenic H5 bird flu virus, raising concerns that the disease may have spread to a third Australian state.
The suspected case involves a giant petrel, a migratory seabird found near Hawks Nest on the NSW Mid North Coast. Preliminary laboratory testing indicated the bird may be infected with the H5 strain of avian influenza, with samples now undergoing confirmatory testing at the CSIRO Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP).
If confirmed, it would mark the first detected case of H5 bird flu in a wild migratory seabird in New South Wales.
Virus Continues to Spread
The latest development follows Australia’s first confirmed detections of the H5 virus in Western Australia last month, where several infected migratory birds were identified. South Australia also confirmed cases shortly afterward.
Authorities in Western Australia are simultaneously investigating another suspected case after a dead giant petrel found near Mullaloo, north of Perth, tested positive in preliminary screening. If confirmed, it would represent the virus’s first appearance in the Perth metropolitan area.
The H5N1 virus has spread rapidly across Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, and South America over recent years through migratory birds, causing significant losses among wild bird populations and commercial poultry flocks.
NSW Government Calls Situation “Incredibly Concerning”
NSW Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty described the suspected detection as “incredibly concerning” for both wildlife and the agricultural sector.
She warned that H5 outbreaks overseas have had devastating consequences for native bird species and poultry industries.
Despite the detection, health authorities stressed that the current risk to the general public remains low.
Enhanced Surveillance Underway
NSW Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jo Coombe said authorities have significantly expanded surveillance efforts to detect additional infections as early as possible.
More than 500 additional staff, including officers from Local Land Services and the National Parks and Wildlife Service, have been trained to monitor and investigate suspected bird flu cases across the state.
Officials are also using spatial mapping technology to identify potential hotspots and track any further spread of the virus.
Public Urged Not to Handle Sick or Dead Birds
Authorities are advising members of the public not to touch sick or dead birds.
