Bird Flu

H5 bird flu has been detected in a number of wild birds in NSW.

Please refer to www.birdflu.gov.au for the most up-to-date information.

Note that the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) is the lead agency in response to avian bird flu, not the City of Coffs Harbour.

If you see sick or dead birds or other wildlife:

Avoid.

Avoid contact with sick or dead birds and keep children and pets away.  

Record. 

Record what you see, including date, time, location, species and numbers. Take photos or video if safe to do so. 

Report.  

Report sick or dead birds or other animals by using the online form or call 1800 675 888 

 

What does Bird Flu look like? 

H5 bird flu can only be confirmed by testing at government laboratories.

Clinical signs of infection with H5 bird flu in birds include: 

  • Sudden death without clinical signs, including mass mortality events.
  • Lethargy or reluctance to walk, eat or drink.
  • Do not move away when approached.
  • Droopy appearance or ruffled feathers.
  • Neurological signs such as tremors, poor co-ordination, unusual postures, inability to walk or stand, seizures.
  • Respiratory signs such as panting, nasal discharge, coughing or sneezing.
  • Swelling around the head and neck.
  • Watery or green diarrhoea. 

Mammals may show:

  • Neurological signs (paralysis, seizures and tremors).
  • Respiratory signs (breathing difficulties).
  • Unusual behaviour .
  • Sudden death, including the potential for mass mortality events. 

How does it spread? 

  • H5 bird flu spreads mainly through direct contact with infected animals, their droppings or bodily fluids.

  • It can also spread indirectly via contaminated surfaces, equipment, vehicles, water or dust.

  • The current risk of H5 bird flu to humans is considered low, but you should still not touch sick birds or animals. 

Shearwater migration 

  • Dead shearwaters on beaches can be normal during migration.
  • Do not handle dead birds and report unusual numbers or species of birds.
  • Keep pets and children away from carcasses .

 

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