H5 bird flu testing update 24 August

There are 5 new suspect H5 bird flu events in South Australia, including a long-nosed fur seal at The Pages Conservation Park.

No new confirmed events have been reported since yesterday’s update, and the total number of confirmed H5 bird flu events in South Australia remains 194.

The new suspect events include:

• Long nosed fur seal
  • Offshore - The Pages Conservation ParkGreater crested tern
• Greater crested tern
  • Metropolitan - Osborne
  • Limestone Coast - Coorong (two events)
• White fronted tern
  • Limestone Coast - Carpenter Rocks

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

In line with national protocols, the South Australian Government recently changed how we report on H5 bird flu detections.

Reporting is now based on events, rather than individual animal detections, where an event may involve one or more animals. The number of positive events captures all previously reported individual confirmed detections.

An interactive map is available on the H5 bird flu website with up-to-date information on event locations: see Current situation.

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 forums including tonight’s (24 August) event at Golden Grove/Wynn Vale) and Thursday night (27 August) at Port MacDonnell, visit birdflu.sa.gov.au.