Australia has detected its first suspected case of avian influenza on the mainland, in a remote area in the southwest of the country, Reuters reports.
A migratory seabird found in Cape Le Grand National Park tested positive for avian influenza, and further tests are being conducted to confirm the strain, Western Australia’s Agriculture Minister, Jackie Jarvis, informed. “We are treating this suspected case of H5N1 avian influenza with seriousness. If confirmed, there will be a rapid and coordinated national response.” The results of the new tests will be announced on Saturday, the official added.
Since 2021, outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza have expanded, causing the culling of millions of birds, infecting poultry and dairy farms, and even some workers at these facilities.
Australia was the only continent without a confirmed case.
Now, authorities are preparing by increasing biosecurity measures at farms, testing coastal birds, vaccinating vulnerable species, and preparing response plans.
“If this case is confirmed, it will obviously be a concerning development; Australia has spent the last few years preparing for this possibility,” said Environment Minister Murray Watt.
Jarvis announced that another sick bird, found in the same area, is currently being tested for avian influenza.
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