The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has confirmed a second case of H5 bird flu in New South Wales after a giant petrel tested positive on the Mid North Coast. This detection at Bennetts Beach in Hawks Nest marks the 15th confirmed or presumed positive case of the virus in Australia, according to federal authorities.
H5 Bird Flu Detections at Hawks Nest
A member of the public discovered the infected giant petrel at Bennetts Beach and reported the find to officials. This specific location has now seen two separate infections within a two-week window, as another giant petrel tested positive at the same beach a fortnight prior.
According to DAFF, all 15 detections across Australia to date have been in individual wild seabirds found in coastal areas. The department further specified that all but one of these birds were wild migratory seabirds.
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Human Health Risk and Official Response
Despite the increase in detections, Australian Chief Veterinary Officer Beth Cookson stated that the risk to human health remains low.
Comparison of Current Australian Cases
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Detections | 15 confirmed or presumed positive |
| Primary Host | Wild seabirds (mostly migratory) |
| Recent NSW Cluster | Two giant petrels at Bennetts Beach |
Pro Tip: If you find a dead or sick bird on a beach, do not touch it. Report the sighting immediately to local wildlife authorities or the Department of Agriculture to help track the virus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is H5 bird flu?
It is an avian influenza virus that affects birds. In Australia, current cases are linked to the H5 strain found in wild seabirds.
Can humans catch bird flu?
While possible, the Australian Chief Veterinary Officer, Beth Cookson, has stated that the current risk to human health is low.
Where have the cases been found?
Detections have occurred in coastal locations across Australia, with recent cases identified at Bennetts Beach in New South Wales.
For more information on wildlife health and biosecurity, visit the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry website.
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