The H5 strain of avian influenza or bird flu was detected in Western Australia in June 2026. While the risk to human health is low, this strain of bird flu has been circulating globally and has caused mass mortality in wild and pet birds, poultry and other livestock, cats and dogs, and other animals including marine mammals.
What is bird flu?
Bird flu can infect any bird species, however not all birds who carry it will get sick. The H5 strain is the most serious type of bird flu and has killed millions of birds and mammals worldwide. If H5 bird flu establishes in Australia, some wildlife populations could significantly decline, particularly if they are already threatened, affecting ecosystems and biodiversity.
Bird flu rarely infects people, but it can happen, especially during animal outbreaks. Most people experience mild to no flu-like symptoms including fever, sore throat and eyes, runny nose, cough or difficulty breathing, aches and pains, diarrhoea, nausea or vomiting.
Bird flu is spread through direct contact with infected birds, droppings, shared water, feed or equipment as well as contaminated environments (such as nesting materials).
What can you do?
- Avoid – Do not touch or move any sick or dead birds, marine mammals or other wildlife, and keep pets away.
- Record – Take photos or video, and note the date, time and location of the animal to assist authorities with the report.
- Report – Phone the Emergency Animal Disease hotline on 1800 675 888.
Early action helps reduce impacts on our wildlife and natural environments including the following:
- Keep cats from roaming and keep dogs on lead when in natural areas or near wildlife.
- Use netting or housing to keep wild birds away from pet birds or poultry and their food and water.
- Clean cages, equipment and footwear regularly, and wash hands before and after handling pets or eggs.
Those who work directly with wildlife or poultry can help prevent exposure by wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and monitoring for bird symptoms including weakness, breathing problems, swelling of the head or neck, sudden deaths and a decrease in eggs. Getting a seasonal flu vaccine can help prevent bird flu becoming a bigger threat to people.
Be prepared. Learn more at birdflu.gov.au