Seven suspected new bird flu cases are ‘evidence of spread’ into Australian wildlife, experts warn
Summary
South Australia has found seven new possible cases of deadly H5 bird flu in wild greater crested terns, indicating the disease might be spreading among local birds. Authorities are testing samples to confirm this and are monitoring the situation closely, but no cases have been found in farms or poultry so far.Key Facts
- Seven possible new cases of H5 bird flu were found in greater crested terns in South Australia’s Limestone Coast area.
- These birds were found dead or sick near Cape Jaffa, Southend Jetty, and Port MacDonnell.
- If confirmed, these cases would bring South Australia's total to 14 bird flu cases, mostly in greater crested terns.
- No bird flu has been detected in poultry or agricultural industries yet.
- Experts warn that bird flu could spread more as the spring breeding season begins when birds gather in large groups.
- BirdLife Australia says greater crested terns nest in colonies and interact with other coastal birds, raising the risk of further spread.
- The government is increasing monitoring and testing to understand how the virus is moving.
- Health officials say the risk to human health remains low and there are no large bird deaths currently.
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