H5 bird flu testing update 28 August

There are 46 new confirmed H5 bird flu events in South Australia since yesterday’s update, including Australia’s first detection in a dolphin.

The increase in cases reported today reflects a change to the way H5 bird flu cases are confirmed in South Australia, helping to provide faster results and more timely reporting.

Under the updated approach to reporting, cases can now be confirmed when laboratory testing in Adelaide detects the H5 bird flu virus. Previously, most samples were routinely sent to the ACDP for additional testing before a case could be confirmed.

The change, which is supported through nationally agreed protocols, reduces delays and allows specialist national laboratory resources to be focused on more complex or unusual cases.

Samples will still be referred to ACDP where further analysis is required, such as when results are unclear or where additional information is needed to support the investigation. This means all of our previously suspect cases are now confirmed, and additional positive cases have been confirmed based on SA-based laboratory testing.

The new positive events include a common dolphin at Goolwa, which has been referred to ACDP for further analysis, and a red fox at Osborne, which was previously reported as a suspect event.

While the detection in the common dolphin is a new development in Australia, there is evidence of dolphins and porpoises catching H5 bird flu overseas. Dolphins would not commonly eat birds but it is not unusual for them to sometimes interact.

There are now 249 confirmed H5 bird flu events in South Australia. There are currently no suspect events.

In line with national protocols, the South Australian Government reports H5 bird flu detections as events, rather than individual animal detections. An event may involve one or more animals.

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.

The public are reminded to contact their vet if they have concerns regarding their pets and H5 bird flu.

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 visit birdflu.sa.gov.au.