Bird flu is spreading locally and Australia faces more wildlife deaths. How bad could it get?
Summary
Australia has confirmed local spread of the deadly H5N1 bird flu among wild birds, marking a new stage in the outbreak. Authorities reported several new cases in South Australian birds, including on Kangaroo Island, where there are concerns for endangered sea lions.Key Facts
- Australia now has local transmission of the H5N1 bird flu virus in wild birds.
- 11 new suspected cases were found in greater crested terns in South Australia, including four on Kangaroo Island.
- There are 27 confirmed bird flu cases in Australia so far, all linked to sub-Antarctic virus strains.
- No cases have been found yet in poultry or agricultural birds in Australia.
- The risk to human health from bird flu remains low in Australia.
- The virus poses a threat to wildlife, especially the endangered Australian sea lion population on Kangaroo Island.
- Bird flu has killed large numbers of marine mammals in other parts of the world, raising concern for similar impacts in Australia.
- Authorities say controlling the virus in wild birds is very difficult, but they will continue monitoring and try to limit damage to wildlife.
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