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PIRSA Biosecurity – an arm of the Department of Primary Industries and Regions South Australia – is asking bird owners to be on the alert for an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as Bird Flu, in South Australia.
While there are no detections of HPAI in South Australia, there are currently outbreaks of the H7 strain of HPAI in Victoria, New South Wales, and the Australian Capital Territory.
The current H7 outbreaks interstate are not the same as the H5 strain that is present overseas. Australia is the only continent currently free of the H5 strain. At a recent national meeting of Agriculture Ministers, it was agreed to convene a national H5 preparedness exercise to coordinate across jurisdictions.
Preparedness against HPAI forms part of broader State Government $6.8 million commitment to prepare for and respond to Emergency Animal Diseases (EAD). It includes the purchase of EAD response units and a mobile laboratory, with both to be deployed as required.
The State Government, through PIRSA Biosecurity, is in regular contact with key South Australian poultry industry representatives, poultry owners and veterinarians. This is to provide updates on the avian influenza situation interstate and globally, and to emphasise the importance of on-farm biosecurity and early reporting of sick or dead birds.
PIRSA is also keeping other relevant State Government agencies up to date on the ongoing situation, including a recent presentation to the State Emergency Centre. PIRSA has deployed biosecurity officers to assist with the Victorian response activities, who are bringing back valuable experience and learnings for South Australia.
If an outbreak occurred, the immediate response would include:
- Implementation of disease control zones, quarantine, and movement controls.
- Destruction and disposal of infected and exposed animals.
- Decontamination of infected premises, vehicles, equipment, and animal products.
- Surveillance of susceptible animals.
Biosecurity is a shared responsibility, and it’s important all poultry owners help keep their birds safe – whether commercial flocks, backyard poultry, pet birds, or racing pigeons. This includes restricting contact between their birds and wild birds. Find more information on reducing risks of avian influenza at Avian influenza – PIRSA
Producers or bird owners who notice any signs of disease in their backyard or commercial poultry flocks must immediately contact either your local veterinarian or the Emergency Animal Disease hotline on 1800 675 888.
While infection of humans with AI viruses is uncommon, it has been known to occur. SA Health has issued an advisory notice on Avian Influenza (bird flu) in humans – including symptoms, treatment and prevention – at Avian Influenza (bird flu) in humans – including symptoms, treatment and prevention | SA Health
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