Additional H5 positive birds confirmed in Narooma and Merimbula

H5 avian influenza (bird flu) has been confirmed in seven birds in Narooma and Merimbula, across six different bird flu events on the NSW South Coast.

Given the spread of bird flu across Australia, NSW is now moving to the nationally consistent reporting system of events rather than individual cases. An event is a single investigation that may involve one or more birds. It considers factors such as location, timing, species and other investigation findings.

To date, eleven H5 bird flu events have been reported in NSW, including eight on the Far South Coast.

Bird flu events so far in NSW are as follows:

• Event one: Giant Petrel near Hawks Nest
• Event two: Giant Petrel near Hawks Nest
• Event three: Greater Crested Tern near Narooma
• Event four: Greater Crested Tern near Wentworth
• Event five: Greater Crested Tern near Eden.

New events announced today:

• Event six:  Greater Crested Terns near Narooma
• Event seven: Greater Crested Terns near Narooma
• Event eight: Giant Petrel near Narooma
• Event nine: Two Greater Crested Terns near Merimbula
• Event ten: Greater Crested Terns near Merimbula
• Event eleven: Greater Crested Terns near Merimbula.

The NSW Government is progressing plans to vaccinate priority captive native species as part of efforts to protect vulnerable wildlife populations from H5 bird flu.

Species identified as priorities for potential vaccination include little penguins and regent honeyeaters.

Decisions on vaccinating other species will be made on a case-by-case basis, guided by the latest science and evidence, and considering factors such as disease risk, conservation significance and the practicalities of vaccine delivery.

While vaccination is an important tool, it is not a standalone solution and forms just one part of the broader response to H5 bird flu.

Since June, a national surveillance program has strengthened Australia's ability to detect H5 bird flu early and respond quickly, with the latest detection triggering enhanced surveillance in the surrounding area, including monitoring by ground crews, drones and on waterways.

Public reporting is a critical part of the response, with calls to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline helping to support detection efforts.

Bird flu has not been detected in commercial poultry flocks or captive birds anywhere in Australia and the risk to human health remains low.

If you encounter a suspected sick bird or marine mammal, avoid contact, record what you see and report it immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe said:

“These new events are very disturbing but we’re continuing to prepare for further impacts of bird flu.

“We are undertaking surveillance and we are working closely with wildlife groups to share as much information as possible.

“NSW is also progressing plans for vaccinations and how we could expand the program.”

Minister for Agriculture, Regional and Western NSW Tara Moriarty said:

“As H5 bird flu is detected in wild birds, our focus is on early detection, rapid response and protecting vulnerable wildlife.

“We will use every tool available, including surveillance, preparedness planning and targeted vaccination programs, to strengthen our response.

“While there have been no detections of H5 bird flu in commercial poultry flocks anywhere in Australia, producers and industry are prepared and the NSW Government continues to undertake surveillance activities.”