June 2026 Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) detected in Australia

In Western Australia the first detection of H5 avian influenza or bird flu occurred this June and it has now also been confirmed in SA. The H5N1 strain is a serious high contagious strain that has been circulating overseas for several years.

Further information on Bird Flu can be found here Bird flu (Avian influenza) – DAFF

What is Bird Flu?

Avian influenza commonly called bird flu is a viral infection caused by type A strains of influenza virus. There are two categories used when describing strains of bird flu these are low pathogenicity avian influenza (LPAI) or high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI).

The virus mainly affects birds, but it can also affect other animals. In rare cases it can also infects humans, particularly during animal outbreaks. Due to the virus being transmitted via direct contact with infected birds, contaminated equipment, or through the environment, including water, feed and faeces.

Therefore, if you see any dead or sick birds or animals showing any signs of bird flu you should do the following:

• Avoid contact with sick or dead birds
• Record the date, time, location and take a photo
• Report multiple dead birds or other animals to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline 1800 675 888

Common signs of Bird Flu in animals

Wild birds

• can’t stand, walk, or fly properly
• droopy or puffed-up appearance
• breathing problems (panting or sneezing)
• unusual head or neck posture
• sudden death (especially in large numbers)

Poultry (chickens, ducks, etc.)

• sudden drop in egg production
• lethargy or not eating/drinking
• swollen head or limbs
• bruising on comb, feet, or skin
• breathing issues or runny nose
• sudden death

Mammals (seals, cows, cats, etc.)

• weakness or tiredness
• trouble walking or breathing
• seizures, tremors or walking in circles
• drooling or runny nose
• sudden illness or death

If you have your own birds…..

It is recommending for you to take action to protect them from the increased threat of H5 avian flu and you should do as follows:

• Keep aviaries and equipment clean
• Keep bird feed and water out of reach from wild birds
• Keep wild birds away from your birds by using netting or housing. A “cage within a cage” system works best to keep a separation
• Don’t touch birds, unless you there are no other options
• Wash hands thoroughly and frequently with soap and running water and follow up with hand sanitizer
• Wear appropriate PPE (this includes N95 mask and protective clothing and gloves that you do not wear in other places)
• Keep new birds quarantined before integrating them with your flock
• Keep watch for signs of H5N1 bird flu and report groups of sick or dead birds to the Emergency Animal Disease hotline on 1800 675 888.
• Keep informed at birdflu.gov.au 
• If you get symptoms, call your doctor to say you have been around infected birds

If you have a sick pet bird and are concerned about bird flu or find an injured wild bird please contact us first on (03) 5248 2009 as the team at Bellarine Veterinary Practice will provide you guidance or organise an appointment for you.

Please do not bring birds in to the clinic without calling first. If you do bring in a sick bird, you will be asked to wait outside to be triaged first. It is advisable for you to wear a mask to protect yourself if you are handling a sick bird.

We thank you for your cooperation.