A Greater Crested Tern on the South Coast. Photo: Karyn Starmer.
The H5 bird flu has now been detected in Goulburn alongside four other new regions across NSW, bringing the confirmed cases in the state up to 30.
The event in Goulburn has seen a Greater Crested Tern infected with the virus, with Dee Why and Hawks Nest also recording cases in the same species of bird.
Meanwhile, Moruya has recorded cases in Silver Gulls, and Congo has recorded cases in the White-fronted Tern.
The NSW Government is working closely with the poultry industry based in Goulburn to prevent the spread of the virus to poultry flocks of captive birds, while also remaining adamant that the risk to humans remains low.
Minister for Agriculture, Regional and Western NSW Tara Moriarty said the new detections were a reminder for people to remain vigilant and to remain on top of surveillance and reporting.
“We’re working closely with the poultry industry to reduce the risk of the virus spreading,” she said.
“NSW has recommended poultry owners voluntarily house birds, and the NSW poultry industry continues to operate normally.
“Now is the time for everyone who has backyard chickens or pet birds in aviaries to take precautionary steps to ensure there are no interactions between their chooks and pets and wild birds.”
Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe reinforced the need to report sick birds, stating it is impossible to eradicate the disease once it establishes itself in the wild bird population.
“The NSW Government has commenced a rollout of targeted vaccinations for vulnerable species of birds to help protect them against H5 avian influenza,” she said.
“We are focused on strong surveillance, preparedness and practical measures that reduce the spread of H5 bird flu and help protect our most vulnerable native wildlife.
“If you see a sick or dead bird, please ensure you and your pets avoid contact. Record what you see on your phone and report it via the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline.”
The NSW Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Joanne Coombe said while the number of bird flu events was growing, there had been no signs of mass mortalities in NSW.
“A national surveillance plan is in operation to monitor for any further detections and facilitate rapid, coordinated response,” she said.
“If you see sick or dead wild birds, domestic birds, marine mammals or other wildlife showing signs of H5 bird flu, avoid contact, record what you see, report it via the online reporting form or contact the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.”
