Australia ramps up H5N1 bird‑flu monitoring as cases appear in wild seabirds

Australian authorities have confirmed the first mainland detections of the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in migratory seabirds in Western Australia and South Australia. So far the virus has been found in a brown skua, a giant petrel and a southern giant petrel, with no confirmed infections in domestic poultry or mammals.

State ministers and wildlife officials stress that the cases remain isolated. Agriculture Minister Jackie Jarvis said there is “absolutely no evidence of any spread of this disease, it is only single migratory birds that have been found on beaches.” Prime Minister‑level biosecurity teams are expanding ground and drone surveillance, increasing testing frequency, and urging the public to report dead or sick birds.

Poultry producers are on high alert. The Australian Chicken Growers Council and the Australian Chicken Meat Federation are briefing farmers, who are implementing biosecurity measures such as restricting access to sheds and enhancing hygiene. Experts warn that free‑range and backyard flocks are most at risk.

Veterinary scientists also caution that H5N1 can be fatal for pet cats and that off‑leash dogs near wetlands could spread the virus. BirdLife Australia president Professor Hugh Possingham told a media briefing that an outbreak in local wildlife is “very likely” within months and urged citizens to watch for unusual bird behaviour.

New Zealand’s poultry industry is watching the situation closely, with the Ministry for Primary Industries preparing contingency plans in case the virus reaches its shores.