As of 2025, the bird flu strain causing significant outbreaks around the world is known as highly pathogenic H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b. This strain emerged around 2020 and has spread to every continent accept Australia, affecting millions of wild birds and domestic poultry. Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific nations are currently the only regions free from this infection, but there are concerns that it will eventually spread to these areas as well.
in Australia,efforts are underway to eradicate the bird flu. Scientists and authorities are actively monitoring and testing for the virus. As a notable example, egg farmer Greg Palethorpe recently found a chicken on his farm showing symptoms of the deadly bird flu HPAI. The situation highlights the ongoing vigilance required to manage and control the spread of this disease.
For the latest updates and advice, the Victorian Agriculture Department has provided a 24-hour hotline (1800 675 888) and encourages anyone with suspicions about possible bird flu cases to contact them or their local vet. The department has also assured consumers that eggs and poultry products from supermarkets are safe to consume and do not pose a risk.Avian Influenza: Understanding the Risks and Precautions
Avian influenza, commonly known as “bird flu,” is a highly contagious virus that can cause sudden death in poultry. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that the deadly H5N1 strain rarely affects humans and is not easily transferred between people. Though,the potential for a more severe strain,like the highly pathogenic H5N1,to reach Australian shores via wild bird migration patterns has sparked concern.
Last year, Victoria experienced Australia’s largest avian influenza outbreak on record. Between late May and late June, eight properties tested positive for H7N3 and H7N9 avian influenza in south-west Victoria. This outbreak highlighted the need for strict biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of the virus.
Key Biosecurity Measures
- Never enter paddocks and touch or feed livestock you don’t own.
- Report your arrival and don’t park near animals.
- Wash your hands and footwear before and after a farm visit.
- Always follow the directions of property owners.
These measures are crucial in minimizing the risk of avian influenza transmission. The department noted that while avian influenza viruses are possible, the risk to the public remains low.
Industry recovery and Government Response
There was cautious relief last week from egg farmers nationally that they can start to rebuild a devastated industry. Production is expected to return to normal levels in spring,depending on further outbreaks. However,egg prices aren’t expected to drop. The industry is expected to pay 20 per cent of the clean-up costs, forcing farmers to pass on these costs to consumers.
Over the past five decades,Australia has successfully contained and eradicated H7 bird flu multiple times. The federal government is investing more than $100 million to bolster national preparedness against potential future outbreaks.
Summary of Avian Influenza Outbreaks and Measures
| Year | Outbreak Details | Government Response |
|————|——————————————————————————-|——————————————————————————|
| 2022 | Eight properties tested positive for H7N3 and H7N9 in Victoria | Strict biosecurity measures enforced |
| Historical | Multiple accomplished containment and eradication of H7 bird flu | Investment in national preparedness, over $100 million allocated |
Understanding the risks and adhering to biosecurity measures are essential in managing avian influenza outbreaks. By following the guidelines and staying informed, we can help protect both the poultry industry and public health.
Australian Government Department of Agriculture, water and the Environment
Investment in National Preparedness
Avian Influenza: Understanding the Risks and Precautions
Table of Contents
- Avian Influenza: Understanding the Risks and Precautions
- Interview with Dr. Linda Thompson, Avian Influenza Expert
- Q: Dr. Thompson, can you provide an overview of the current situation regarding avian influenza globally and in Australia?
- Q: What specific measures are being taken in Australia to monitor and control the spread of avian influenza?
- Q: How do these measures protect both the poultry industry and public health?
- Q: What can the public do to stay safe and informed regarding avian influenza?
- Q: can you discuss some of the long-term strategies being employed to prevent future outbreaks?
- Q: What is the current state of the poultry industry following significant outbreaks?
- Q: How can the general public support efforts to control and prevent avian influenza?
- Interview with Dr. Linda Thompson, Avian Influenza Expert
Avian influenza,commonly known as “bird flu,” is a highly contagious virus that can cause sudden death in poultry. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that the deadly H5N1 strain rarely affects humans and is not easily transferred between people. Though, the potential for a more severe strain, like the highly pathogenic H5N1, to reach Australian shores via wild bird migration patterns has sparked concern.
Interview with Dr. Linda Thompson, Avian Influenza Expert
Q: Dr. Thompson, can you provide an overview of the current situation regarding avian influenza globally and in Australia?
Dr.Linda Thompson: Certainly. As of 2025, the bird flu strain causing significant outbreaks around the world is known as highly pathogenic H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b. This strain emerged around 2020 and has spread to every continent except Australia.It has severely impacted millions of wild birds and domestic poultry worldwide. Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific nations remain currently free from this infection, but there are concerns that it will eventually spread to these areas as well.
Q: What specific measures are being taken in Australia to monitor and control the spread of avian influenza?
Dr. Linda Thompson: In Australia,efforts are underway to eradicate the bird flu. Scientists and authorities are actively monitoring and testing for the virus.A significant example is the recent case involving egg farmer Greg Palethorpe, who found a chicken on his farm displaying symptoms of the deadly bird flu HPAI. This situation underlines the ongoing vigilance required to manage and control the spread of this disease.
Q: How do these measures protect both the poultry industry and public health?
Dr. Linda Thompson: Understanding the risks and adhering to biosecurity measures are essential in managing avian influenza outbreaks. By following the guidelines and staying informed, we can help protect both the poultry industry and public health. These measures include never entering paddocks and touching or feeding livestock you don’t own, reporting yoru arrival, washing hands and footwear before and after a farm visit, and always following the directions of property owners.
Q: What can the public do to stay safe and informed regarding avian influenza?
dr. Linda thompson: The public can stay informed by following updates from reliable sources like the WHO and the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Water and the Habitat. For the latest updates and advice, the Victorian Agriculture Department has provided a 24-hour hotline (1800 675 888). Anyone with suspicions about possible bird flu cases should contact them or their local vet. The department has assured consumers that eggs and poultry products from supermarkets are safe to consume and do not pose a risk.
Q: can you discuss some of the long-term strategies being employed to prevent future outbreaks?
Dr. Linda Thompson: Over the past five decades, Australia has successfully contained and eradicated H7 bird flu multiple times. The federal government is investing more than $100 million to bolster national preparedness against potential future outbreaks. This investment ensures that we enhance our monitoring, testing, and biosecurity infrastructure and are better prepared for any future threats.
Q: What is the current state of the poultry industry following significant outbreaks?
dr. Linda Thompson: There was cautious relief last week from egg farmers nationally that they can start to rebuild a devastated industry. Production is expected to return to normal levels in spring, depending on further outbreaks. however, egg prices are not expected to drop. The industry is expected to pay 20 percent of the clean-up costs, forcing farmers to pass on these costs to consumers. While this is challenging, it underscores the industry’s commitment to recovery and resilience.
Q: How can the general public support efforts to control and prevent avian influenza?
Dr. Linda Thompson: The general public can support efforts by adhering to the strict biosecurity measures outlined earlier and by staying informed. Educating themselves and sharing reliable information can also contribute significantly, ensuring that everyone understands the importance of vigilance and cooperation to keep both the poultry industry and public health safe.
For the latest updates and advice, visit the World Health Organisation and the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, water and the Environment.
