What is bird flu (H5 avian influenza)?

Avoid, record and report

What is bird flu?
Bird flu (avian influenza) is a viral disease that primarily affects birds. The current strain detected in Australia is highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5). While it can cause serious illness in wild birds, bird flu is considered a low risk to people. There have been no detections in poultry in Western Australia.

Is bird flu a risk to people?
Bird flu is considered a low risk to people. Transmission generally requires close contact with infected birds or animals or contaminated environments.

How does it spread?
Bird flu can spread between birds through direct contact and through contaminated environments. People are unlikely to become infected unless they have close contact with infected birds, other infected animals or contaminated environments.

What is the Shire doing?
The Shire is actively monitoring the situation and working with DPIRD, DBCA and other agencies to support preparedness, protect community wellbeing and minimise impacts on wildlife.

What should I do if I find a sick or dead bird?
1.    Avoid – do not touch or handle the animal. 
2.    Record – take photos and note the location. 
3.    Report – call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888. 

Pet owners
Keep dogs on leads in wildlife areas and prevent cats from roaming near wildlife. 

Latest updates
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is the lead agency coordinating Western Australia's response to H5 bird flu. For the latest information, visit Weekly Bird Flu Update in Western Australia.