H5N1 avian influenza (H5 bird flu)
H5N1 avian influenza (H5 bird flu) is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects wild birds, poultry and wildlife. The risk to people is low, as humans are rarely infected.
Responsible animal ownership can help reduce the spread of disease and protect pets and local wildlife.
What to do if you see sick or dead wildlife?
Avoid, record, report.
Avoid:
- contact with sick or dead wild birds and animals.
Record:
- what you see, including the number of animals and their species
- where you see it, and when
- photos or videos, if safe to do so.
Report:
I’m a pet owner. What should I do?
Pet owners are encouraged to:
- keep dogs on a lead when walking them
- stop pets from approaching or touching sick or dead birds
- contact your veterinarian if a pet becomes unwell after contact with wild birds
- wash your hands after handling pets and visiting areas used by birds
- avoid areas where large numbers of birds are gathering.
I own poultry. What should I do?
Poultry owners with flocks of 50 or more birds are required to house or confine their birds to minimise contact with wild birds and reduce the risk of H5 bird flu entering poultry populations.
This is a precautionary measure designed to protect Victoria's poultry industry.
Where can I get more information?
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely. We encourage our community to follow expert advice from relevant authorities.
For updates and more information, visit Agriculture Victoria.
How to report?
You are encouraged to report clusters of five or more sick or dead wild birds anywhere in Victoria, or if you see even one sick or dead:
- wild seabird, waterbird, shorebird, or bird of prey
- marine mammal (such as seals or dolphins).
Make a report
To report sick or dead poultry or livestock, please call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline immediately on 1800 675 888.