Australia warns H5N1 likely to spread after first mass mortality episode
Summary
Australia has reported its first mass death of seabirds caused by the H5N1 bird flu, with about 50 greater crested terns found dead near Adelaide. Officials warn the virus is likely to spread further among wildlife, but there is no sign it has reached poultry farms yet.Key Facts
- About 50 greater crested terns were found dead, and 35 were sick near Cape Jaffa, south of Adelaide.
- Tests confirmed these birds were infected with H5N1 bird flu.
- This is the first mass mortality event from H5N1 in Australian seabirds.
- Australian farms have increased biosecurity and locked down to protect poultry since June.
- Officials expect more wildlife infections and mass deaths as the virus spreads.
- Wild birds and animals move freely, making it hard to stop the virus from spreading.
- Australia and New Zealand have prepared for H5N1 with bird testing and response plans.
- H5N1 can infect humans who contact sick animals, but human cases are rare and risk is low.
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