H5 bird flu is a viral disease that primarily affects birds but can occasionally infect other animals, including mammals.
The Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) has confirmed H5 bird flu in Tasmania and is encouraging everyone to remain vigilant and help reduce the risk of spread.
There have been no detections in Tasmanian poultry, and chicken meat and eggs remain safe to eat.
You can help protect wildlife, pets and your community by avoiding contact with sick or dead animals and following simple biosecurity precautions.
Protecting pet birds and poultry
Wild birds can carry H5 bird flu and may pose a risk to domestic poultry and pet birds.
You can help reduce the risk by:
preventing contact between wild birds and your birds where possible.
storing feed securely
using feeders and watering systems that minimise contact with wild birds
providing clean water that wild birds cannot access
regularly cleaning bird housing and equipment
washing your hands after handling birds, eggs, cages or droppings
if you attract wild birds to your garden, keep feeding areas well away from poultry enclosures
keep wild birds out. Keep your flock safe
What signs should bird owners watch for?
Signs of H5 bird flu in birds may include:
sudden death
breathing difficulties
coughing or sneezing
tremors or incoordination
twisting of the neck
inability to stand, walk or fly
swelling around the head, neck or eyes
changes in the appearance of the eyes
If your pet or birds become unwell
contact your veterinarian
report suspected bird flu to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888
keep affected animals away from wildlife and other animals until veterinary advice is obtained
Any suspicion of an emergency animal disease should be reported immediately.
Protecting cats from bird flu
Cats appear to be more susceptible to H5 bird flu than dogs and can develop severe illness following exposure to infected birds, wildlife or contaminated food products. Overseas cases have been reported in domestic cats following contact with infected birds and other sources of infection.
Cats that hunt birds or roam outdoors are more likely to be exposed. Keeping cats indoors or in a secure outdoor enclosure is the best way to reduce their risk of infection while also helping protect Tasmania's native wildlife.
Keep them safe. Keep them home.
Find information about keeping cats safe on our Responsible Cat Ownership web page.
Protecting dogs from bird flu
Dogs are considered to be at lower risk than cats but may become infected after contact with infected birds, wildlife or animal carcasses.
When walking your dog:
keep your dog on a lead, particularly around areas where birds gather
prevent your dog from investigating, touching or eating sick or dead birds and other wildlife
follow local council requirements relating to dog access and lead control
These simple steps help protect your dog, wildlife and backyard poultry.
Keep them close. Keep them safe.
What signs should pet owners watch for?
Bird flu infection in mammals can cause a range of signs, including:
lethargy or unusual tiredness
reduced appetite
breathing difficulties
nasal discharge
tremors or incoordination
seizures or other neurological signs
Not all exposed animals will become ill, but veterinary advice should be sought if a pet develops signs after contact with wild birds, wildlife or carcasses.
If you see sick or dead birds or wildlife
AVOID direct contact
RECORD what you observe, including the location
REPORT sightings to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
For more information and to check current advice visit our H5 Bird Flu web pages.