There are different strains of avian influenza with some low pathogenicity strains detected in Australia and Victoria previously.
H5N1 is a new strain that has spread across the globe since 2021.
The new strain has now been detected on mainland Australia in WA, SA and NSW.
At this time, there have been no confirmed cases of H5 bird flu (H5N1) in Victoria. The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), as the lead agency, has established an Incident Management Team (IMT) to coordinate Victoria’s preparedness and response. To stay up to date on the government response, please visit bird flu (avian influenza).
Signs and symptoms in birds
- Lack of coordination, tremors, swimming in circles
- Twisted neck 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
Additional signs and symptoms in mammals
- Seizures
- Drooling
- Nasal discharge
In some species/cases, no or limited symptoms are present, and the animal may die suddenly or be found dead.
Treatment
There is currently no known effective treatment for H5 bird flu infection.
Transmission
Wild birds are considered the natural host for the virus. H5 bird flu is transmitted by direct exposure to the virus in saliva, nasal secretions and droppings of infected birds or via indirect exposure to contaminated environments or objects (e.g. clothing, boots, equipment, etc.).
H5 bird flu rarely spreads from birds or other wildlife species to humans. However, it can happen if someone is in close contact with an infected species, their droppings or working in a heavily contaminated environment. It’s imperative that personal protective equipment is worn when handling birds or other wildlife species and that good hygiene practices are followed.
Reporting suspected H5 bird flu
All suspected cases of H5 bird flu should be reported to DEECA immediately.
For birds and wildlife:
- AVOID contact with sick or dead wild birds or wildlife and their environment
- RECORD what you see
- REPORT wildlife sickness or deaths to the Emergency Response Service (ERS) AND directly to DEECA using this form or call the Emergency Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 in line with the guidance below.
Report clusters of 5 or more sick or dead wild birds of any species, anywhere in Victoria.
Report even one:
- wild seabird, waterbird, shorebird, or bird of prey.
- marine mammal (e.g. seal, sea lion, dolphin).
Following a report, DEECA will assess each report and decide if testing is needed.
Please do not handle or remove animals suspected to have H5 bird flu.
Additional resources