Five cases of H5 bird flu have been confirmed near Portland and a further two in Nelson Bay – Victoria’s first cases of the current outbreak.

The disease was first confirmed in a greater crested tern on Thursday last week.

Cases of H5 bird flu, also known as H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza, have already been confirmed in Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia and New South Wales.

There are no detections in poultry in Australia and no signs of mass wildlife deaths.

Overseas, this strain has caused severe disease and high death rates in poultry, wild birds and other wildlife. 

Human cases are rare and the virus does not spread easily between people.

There are currently no movement restrictions in place for poultry or bird movement in Victoria.

Victorian Farmers Federation president Ryan Milgate said farmers should review their biosecurity plans and keep a lookout for any unusual illness or unexplained bird deaths, reporting them immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline.

“While this detection is concerning, it’s not unexpected and the wider agriculture industry has been undertaking an enormous amount of preparation over the past few months for this very moment,” he said.

“Importantly, this detection is in a wild bird. There has been no spread to commercial poultry flocks or any agricultural environment at this stage, and the risk to human health remains very low.

“Good biosecurity remains our best defence against the spread of disease. We strongly encourage all livestock producers, not just poultry farmers to review their biosecurity plans, ensure they reflect current risks, and remain alert for any sick or dead birds or unusual signs of disease on or near their property.” 

Federal Member for Wannon Dan Tehan has urged residents, farmers and backyard poultry owners to remain vigilant.

Mr Tehan said the confirmation by the CSIRO that H5N1 was spreading among wild birds in southern Australia was a significant development that reinforced the importance of maintaining Australia’s strong biosecurity systems. 

“The detection of bird flu in one wild bird in Portland underlines the importance of remaining vigilant, but it is vital people understand there is currently no evidence that H5N1 has entered Australia’s commercial poultry industry or broader agricultural production systems,” he said. 

“Wannon is home to a world-class agricultural sector and protecting our food security must remain a national priority.” 

People are advised if they see sick or dead birds or other wildlife, do not touch them, record what they see and report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

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