Researchers are actively monitoring a vulnerable colony of red-tailed tropic birds on Lady Elliot Island for the H5 strain of avian influenza. While the virus has been detected in Western Australia, South Australia, and New South Wales, Queensland officials maintain there is currently no evidence of the disease within the state’s wildlife or poultry industries, according to the state’s acting chief biosecurity officer, Fiona Thompson.
Why is Lady Elliot Island a focal point for bird flu surveillance?
Lady Elliot Island, a coral cay situated 80 kilometres north-east of Bundaberg, serves as a critical nesting site for red-tailed tropic birds. According to University of the Sunshine Coast PhD student Ramney Edwards-Francis, the island hosts a relatively new colony, with the first breeding pair recorded in 1983. Because these birds spend the majority of their lives at sea, researchers are documenting their DNA and collecting blood samples to determine their migratory patterns and potential exposure to the H5 virus, as stated by Ms. Edwards-Francis.
Red-tailed tropic birds are listed as vulnerable in both Queensland and New South Wales. Beyond Lady Elliot Island, their nesting sites include mountainous cliff faces of Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island, and the remote Raine Island.
What are the risks to Australian native species?
University of Queensland virology professor Kirsty Short states that the H5 variant originated in Antarctica and reached Australia via migratory seabirds. Professor Short notes that the virus carries significant risks for native species and expresses concern regarding its potential for cross-species transmission. In the United States, the virus has already been documented in various mammals, including dairy cattle, cats, goats, and alpacas. Research is currently underway to determine if certain Australian native species might drive the mammalian adaptation of the virus, according to Professor Short.
How is the government preparing for a potential outbreak?
Queensland Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett has engaged with state and federal counterparts to coordinate surveillance and response strategies. While the government has ruled out the eradication of wild animals, officials are focusing on early detection. Dr. Thompson reports that the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline has seen a “dramatic increase” in calls. Over the past two weeks, more than 180 reports of suspected bird flu in Queensland were investigated, with every sample returning negative results.
Pro Tip: Reporting sick wildlife
If you encounter sick or dead birds, do not handle them. Report the sighting immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline to assist in national surveillance efforts. Rapid reporting is essential for maintaining biosecurity.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is bird flu currently present in Queensland?
No. According to acting chief biosecurity officer Fiona Thompson, there is no evidence of H5 bird flu in Queensland wildlife or poultry industries as of the latest surveillance data. - Can humans catch this strain of bird flu?
The risk of human infection remains low, though Dr. Thompson advises that individuals working closely with animals or wildlife should increase hygiene and infection control measures. - Why are researchers studying red-tailed tropic birds?
Researchers are monitoring the birds to understand their migratory routes and whether they are travelling outside Australian jurisdiction, where they may be exposed to diseases like H5 influenza.
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