15/07/2026
H5 bird flu is a serious concern for Australia given the severe impacts this strain has caused overseas. Here’s what you need to know:
👉 Until now Australia was the only continent free from this strain.
👉 The arrival of the virus through migratory wild birds has been a recognised risk since this strain began to rapidly spread across the globe, and Australia has been preparing.
👉 In wild birds, the disease can cause a range of signs of disease including weakness, breathing difficulties, unusual head or neck posture and sudden death (sometimes in large numbers).
👉 The virus spreads easily via birds, eggs, people, equipment, water and feed.
👉 The likelihood of people becoming infected is low but good hygiene is important if you own birds.
👉 Eggs and poultry remain safe to eat provided they are handled and cooked according to standard safe food handling practices.
Report multiple sick or dead birds or other animals to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
