High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI H5N1) is a highly contagious respiratory disease impacting poultry, wild birds, and other species of animals.
H5N1 differs from previous avian influenza strains. Since 2021, H5N1 has spread rapidly across the world with hundreds of wild bird species impacted. H5N1 has also been shown to spread to other species such as mammals including livestock, scavenger species, and marine mammals such as seals.
To date, the H5N1 strain has not been detected in Australia.
However, due to the global situation and the seasonal movement of birds, there is an increased risk of H5N1 arriving in Australia soon.
Wildlife Victoria is working to ensure we are prepared for H5N1’s potential arrival in Victoria. Our staff and volunteers have been briefed with information about preparedness for an outbreak.
To find out more about avian influenza, and to understand the signs of H5N1 in wild birds and wildlife, please head to our factsheet about avian influenza.
If you suspect an animal is exhibiting symptoms of H5N1, please contact the national Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.