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This article was published in the August 2024 edition of Vetboard Victoria's newsletter. Content was current at the time of publication but there may have been changes since then, as rules, standards and professional and community expectations change over time. Readers are also referred to our Guidelines for appropriate standards of veterinary practice and veterinary facilities.

Stay alert for High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI)

Veterinary practitioners are likely to be at the forefront in the early detection of new avian influenza strains which pose a high risk to Australian wildlife and poultry.

Since 2021, there has been global spread of a new strain of avian flu which has infected many wild and domestic birds as well as mammals. Disturbingly severe illness and high mortalities have been reported on all continents, except for Australia.

The new virus known as high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b has caused unprecedented disease in poultry, wild birds and over 50 mammal species, including marine mammals and carnivores.

All bird species are thought to be susceptible to HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b.

With the detection of HPAI on mainland Antarctica in February 2024, potential pathways of entry to Australia include via wild birds on both northern and southern routes.

Spread of HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b from birds to people is uncommon, and symptoms in humans are usually mild. However, on rare occasions, severe disease and death may occur.

In the USA, H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b has recently been reported in ruminants, causing a drop in milk production in dairy cattle and neurological signs in goats.

Be on the look-out for unusual disease and deaths in domestic and wild birds, and also marine mammals. Avian influenza (AI) is a notifiable disease, and veterinarians who suspect the presence of avian influenza MUST report it IMMEDIATELY to Agriculture Victoria.

You can do this by calling one of the following:
  • 136 186 for an Animal Health Officer or District Veterinary Officer at Agriculture Victoria  (Monday–Friday 8.30 am– 5 pm)
  • 1800 675 888 for the all-hours Emergency Animal Disease Hotline.

More information

  • Avian influenza (bird flu), Agriculture Victoria