Two birds detected with deadly H5 bird flu on Western Australian coast
The first strain of the deadly H5 bird flu was detected in Australia.
Two animals found off the coast of Western Australia were found to carry the disease.
Australian Chief Veterinary Officer Beth Cookson said there had been detections in migratory birds around the world that did not spread to wild animal populations, but this risk increased over time.
“Our investigation is still very early, we have two confirmed sick birds in an isolated area off the coast of Western Australia,” he said.
“We are now taking every step to ensure these are properly investigated and are appealing to the community to help identify whether there are any other sick animals.
“Let’s say it’s almost inevitable that there will be spread in wild bird and mammal populations.”
More to come.
