As migratory birds return to Tasmania there is an increased risk of bird flu, or avian influenza, arriving with them.
Since 2021, a new strain of high pathogenicity avian influenza, known as H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b, has spread rapidly around the world, causing widespread disease and death in birds and other animals, including marine mammals.
The H5 strain of bird flu has not been detected in Tasmania, or Australia, but Tasmanians should expect it to arrive, most likely through wild birds migrating from places where outbreaks continue to occur.
Like human flu, there are many strains of bird flu. Less serious ones are described as low pathogenicity avian influenza and more serious ones are known as high pathogenicity avian influenza.
Bird flu can spread quickly by bird-to-bird contact, as well as through contact with contaminated material such as drinking water and food, manure, farming materials and equipment.
It is not possible to stop infected wildlife entering Tasmania but Biosecurity Tasmania is enforcing strict biosecurity laws at mailing centres, airports and ports to minimise the risk of humans introducing pests and diseases, including bird flu.
Surveillance in wild birds is important for early detection so the Department collects samples from wild waterfowl as part of the National Avian Influenza Wild Bird Surveillance Program.
The Department is prepared for and practised in emergency animal disease response. It has coordinated and taken part in multiple local and national discussion exercises to test its preparedness. Among other preparatory activities, the Department is finalising a Readiness and Response Plan which explains how Tasmania is preparing for the arrival of bird flu, and what steps will be taken if the disease is confirmed here.
The Department also continues to work with relevant industries, vets, the wildlife rescue and rehabilitation sector, other government agencies and the community to help everyone understand the risks, impacts and the role we all have in protecting Tasmania.
What to expect in an outbreak
When bird flu arrives:
it could cause large numbers of bird and wild mammal deaths
it could affect poultry (chicken and egg farms) and other industries
activities like wildlife rescue, hunting, and muttonbird harvesting may need to pause
there could be large numbers of dead animals visible in the community
it may not be possible to remove all dead animals from an area
some areas may be closed for varying amounts of time to prevent disease spread and eliminate risk to human health
scavenging species such as the Tasmanian devil, wedge-tailed eagles, or quolls may become sick and die after eating infected birds
HPAI in wild animals cannot be treated so it’s important Tasmanians understand infected birds will likely die
If you own chickens or pet birds
Bird flu can spread quickly by bird-to-bird contact, as well as through contact with contaminated material such as drinking water and food, manure, farming materials and equipment.
If you own birds, some simple hygiene practices will help you protect your flock.
Make sure wild birds cannot access the same food and water supply as your birds, don’t use water from sources wild birds also use, and keep your infrastructure and equipment clean.
Wash your hands after handling birds and equipment.
How to protect your birds:
Biosecurity Checklist for Bird Keepers (PDF 115Kb)
Disease signs and symptoms
Clinical signs of avian influenza in live birds include:
breathing problems like coughing or sneezing
circling
tremors and incoordination
twisted neck
inability to stand or fly
swelling in the head, neck and eyes
change of colour or cloudiness in the eyes
Signs in live mammals include tremors and incoordination, seizures, breathing problems, and runny nose and drooling.
Reporting sick or dead animals
Avian influenza in animals can look like other disease but stay vigilant.
If you see large numbers (more than 5) of sick or dead birds or other wildlife, phone the Emergency Animal Disease hotline as soon as possible on 1800 675 888.
Record the type of animal, numbers, location, time, what you see, and take photos or videos if possible.
It is important you do not touch sick or dead animals.
Human health
Human infections with avian influenza are rare and require direct and close contact with infected animals.
People should avoid touching sick or dead birds or animals.
If you must handle sick or dead birds, you can help protect yourself by wearing PPE which should include:
Wash your hands thoroughly after handling any birds and equipment.
A bird flu incursion could see mass mortality events both of birds and, potentially, mammal species and is likely to cause significant community concern, particularly for those that work and volunteer with animals. Support is available through:
Access Mental Health 1800 332 388 - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Head to Health Phone Service 1800 595 212 - 8.30am to 5pm weekdays (except public holidays).
A Tasmanian Lifeline 1800 984 434 - 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week
Lifeline 13 11 44
other mental health supports can be found on the Department of Health website.