A deceased giant petrel found washed ashore on Moreton Island, Queensland, has returned a preliminary positive result for H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu). The sample is undergoing further testing by the CSIRO for final confirmation. This is the first suspected case of the H5 virus in Queensland.
Background and Spread
The H5 variant of bird flu has spread globally since 2021. It reached mainland Australia last month when a migratory bird carrying the disease was detected in Western Australia.
As of the latest reports, there have been 17 confirmed cases of H5 bird flu in wild seabirds in Australia:
- 10 cases in Western Australia
- 5 cases in South Australia
- 2 cases in New South Wales
The first case in a native bird was confirmed in South Australia two weeks ago. Authorities report no evidence of large-scale deaths and no detections in poultry or the wider agricultural industry.
Response and Coordination
The national response is led by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), with Biosecurity Queensland serving as the lead response agency in Queensland.
Redland City Council is coordinating with Biosecurity Queensland regarding the suspected case on Moreton Island. Council officials have stated they will continue to liaise with partner agencies to determine response procedures for reports of sick or dead wildlife in the area.
Health and Safety Information
H5N1 bird flu is a highly contagious viral disease in birds. Symptoms in infected birds include respiratory distress and inability to fly or stand.
The virus spreads via droppings, respiratory secretions, and contaminated environments. While primarily affecting birds, the disease has been known to infect some mammals.
The Queensland Government has stated that human infection from bird flu is rare and the risk to human health is considered low.
Public Guidance
Authorities advise the public to avoid touching sick or dead birds and other animals.
Any sightings should be reported to the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline at 1800 675 888.
The Invasive Species Council has called on the government to invest $200 million in wildlife resilience measures. Policy director Dr. Carol Booth stated that surveillance and early detection are only the first step, adding that measures such as feral cat and fox control, habitat restoration, and protecting breeding sites are needed to safeguard vulnerable species.