Officials report no signs of mass mortality while surveillance efforts continue across the region.
NSW Bird Flu Surveillance Expands Under National Event System
With the virus spreading across Australia, New South Wales now logs these detections using a nationally consistent event system. Under this framework, a single investigation can encompass one or more birds by evaluating location, timing, species, and other diagnostic findings, according to state officials. Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer Jane Bennett stated that these latest detections on the Central Coast and South Coast underscore the critical need for ongoing monitoring.
“Every report helps build a clearer picture of where the virus is occurring in wild bird populations and supports our ongoing response efforts,” Ms. Bennett said, as reported by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.
Did You Know?
NSW tracks H5 bird flu through a nationally consistent event system. Rather than counting individual carcasses alone, investigators group findings based on location, timing, and species to map the spread effectively.
Public Safety Guidelines and Reporting Protocols
Authorities emphasize that the risk to human health remains low, and the virus has not been detected in commercial poultry flocks or captive birds anywhere in the state. Even so, the NSW Government maintains its standing advice for poultry owners to house their birds indoors wherever possible. Further decisions regarding mandatory housing will depend on ongoing risk assessments conducted by the Chief Veterinary Officer.
Residents who spot sick or dead wildlife must maintain a safe distance. “If you see sick or dead birds, please do not touch them. Keep children and pets away and report the sighting through the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline so it can be assessed appropriately,” Ms. Bennett urged.
Pro Tip: What to Do If You Spot Wildlife Showing Signs of H5 Bird Flu
- Avoid contact: Never touch sick or dead wild birds, domestic birds, marine mammals, or other wildlife.
- Record what you see: Note the exact location, species, and condition of the animals.
- Report it: Submit details via the online reporting form or call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline at 1800 675 888.
National Response and Monitoring Efforts
A comprehensive national surveillance plan is actively running to monitor for further detections and to ensure a rapid, coordinated response across state borders. While field teams investigate new locations like Woy Woy and Bulli, authorities rely heavily on prompt community notifications to catch early warning signs in wild bird populations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has H5 bird flu been found in commercial poultry in NSW?
No, bird flu has not been detected in commercial poultry flocks or captive birds in New South Wales.
What is the current risk to human health?
According to the NSW Government, the risk to human health remains low.
What should I do if I find a dead bird?
Do not touch it. Keep children and pets away, and report the sighting immediately through the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline at 1800 675 888 or via the online reporting form.
How many H5 bird flu events have been recorded in NSW?
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