H5 bird flu testing update 16 August

The CSIRO’s Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP) has confirmed positive test results for H5 bird flu in samples from 2 wild birds since yesterday’s update.

The new confirmed cases involve a greater crested tern and a silver gull, both from Port MacDonnell on the Limestone Coast.

All were previously reported as suspect detections and have now returned positive results for H5 bird flu following testing at the ACDP in Geelong, Victoria.

There have now been 297 confirmed positive H5 bird flu detections in South Australia.

A further 4 suspect cases of H5 bird flu in South Australia have been detected since the last update, bringing the current number of suspect cases to 14. These include:

• Greater crested terns
  • Adelaide – Glenelg [1], Marino [1], West Beach [1]
  • Adelaide Hills – Mylor [1]

The samples have been sent to ACDP for confirmatory testing with results expected to be known in the coming days.

There remains no H5 bird flu detections in poultry or other livestock. The risk to human health of H5 bird flu remains low.

Engagement with primary industries, the wildlife sector, and the broader South Australian community continues as part of the South Australian Government’s commitment to deliver the most comprehensive and effective wildlife and industry surveillance, reporting and preparedness efforts possible.

South Australians are encouraged to continue being vigilant in reporting sick and dead birds and other wildlife.

Avoid touching sick or dead birds and other wildlife. Record what you see. Report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

For the latest updates, information and advice about H5 bird flu in South Australia, including how to register for the next community forum at Port Adelaide on Monday 17 August, visit birdflu.sa.gov.au.