Native birds in captivity to be vaccinated against H5 bird flu as Australia prepares for more mass mortalities
Summary
Australia will start vaccinating native birds kept in captivity to protect them from the spreading H5 bird flu virus. The vaccination program will first focus on endangered birds in zoos and breeding programs, while attempts to vaccinate wild birds will be limited due to practical challenges.Key Facts
- Australia is affected by the H5 bird flu virus, which continues to spread and cause bird deaths.
- Vaccinations will begin soon for native bird species kept in captivity, especially endangered ones.
- The program will be managed by state governments, which will announce the target species.
- Vaccinating wild birds is difficult because they need two doses, and catching them twice is hard.
- The government tested vaccines made for poultry on native birds over 18 months for safety.
- Endangered captive birds targeted include the orange-bellied parrot, regent honeyeater, and black cockatoo.
- The government will report major bird flu outbreaks instead of daily case counts as the virus spreads.
- Recent bird flu deaths and infections have occurred in South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales.
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