MEDIA STATEMENT – ASID Re: Confirmed H5N1 Bird-flu in Australia

ASID acknowledges the significance of the first detection of a highly pathogenic strain of avian influenza A/H5N1 in a migratory bird on the Australian mainland having spread through wildlife in every other continent. The impact observed in other countries on domesticated and wild birds, farm animals and native wildlife has been devastating with significant secondary impacts on the environment, food production industries and communities particularly First Nations peoples. ASID is watching Australian animal surveillance data closely to understand local impact.

Prof Chris Blyth, president of ASID noted that in other countries, “detection of this flu strain in humans is very rare and only observed in those with direct contact with sick animals. The public are reminded not to touch or handle sick or dead birds and wildlife. They instead should contact the national Emergency Animal Disease HOTLINE on 1800 675 888 or report concerns online at Birdflu.gov.au."

“Given the anticipated arrival of this new bird flu strain, preparatory work and planning has been undertaken by the Australian Government and newly formed Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC), in collaboration with states and territories. National human influenza programs are in place and will be monitoring emerging strains and supporting existing animal surveillance programs.”