H5 bird flu information and advice

Published on 14 August 2026

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The Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) has detected H5 avian influenza (bird flu) in a wild brown skua near Rocky Cape in Tasmania’s north west.

The bird was identified through NRE Tas surveillance activities and was sent to the Animal Health Laboratory in Launceston for testing. Following an initial positive result, samples have been sent to the CSIRO Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness in Geelong for confirmation.

This is Tasmania’s first positive detection of H5 bird flu in a wild bird.

At this stage, there have been no detections in poultry, and there is no evidence of other wildlife mortalities associated with H5 bird flu.

 

 

What is being done?

Tasmania has been preparing for the arrival of H5 bird flu and has been working with government agencies, industry, wildlife organisations and the community to prepare for and respond to the disease.

Following this detection, NRE Tas will expand surveillance in and around the Rocky Cape area, including on King and Flinders islands. This will include monitoring wildlife, collecting samples and assessing the risk to wildlife and the community.

Tasmania has a strong biosecurity system, but it is not possible to prevent infected wildlife from entering the state.

Tasmania’s response will be guided by the Tasmanian Avian Influenza Readiness and Response Plan, as well as the nationally agreed AUSVETPLAN response strategy for avian influenza.

NRE Tas is also progressing vaccination of captive Orange-bellied Parrots as an additional protection measure for this endangered species. Vaccination is not practical for most wild bird populations.

There is currently no approved H5 bird flu vaccine in Australia for backyard, domestic or commercial poultry and birds. There are also no vaccines available for seals, dolphins or Tasmanian devils. The Australian Government is working to make new vaccines available and ensure they are safe for use.

What should you do?

People are asked to remain alert for signs of bird flu and not to touch sick or dead birds or other wildlife.

If you see sick or dead birds or other wildlife:

  • AVOID contact and keep pets away.
  • RECORD what you see, including the type and number of animals and the location. Take photos or video if you can do so safely.
  • REPORT it as soon as possible by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 or using the online reporting form.

Make an online report

Signs of bird flu

Birds affected by bird flu may show signs including:

  • swimming in circles
  • coughing or sneezing
  • being unable to stand or fly
  • a twisted neck
  • swelling around the head, neck or eyes
  • changes in the colour or cloudiness of the eyes.

Some birds may die suddenly without showing any obvious symptoms.
In other animals, signs can include seizures, tremors, lack of coordination, breathing difficulties, a runny nose and drooling.

Help protect wildlife and prevent the spread

You can help by:

  • keeping cats away from wildlife and preventing them from roaming
  • keeping dogs on leads in wildlife areas
  • cleaning footwear, clothing and vehicles when travelling to and from national parks, reserves and farms
  • avoiding contact with sick or dead wildlife.

If you keep birds or chickens

If you own, care for or work with birds, good biosecurity practices can help protect your flock.

  • Keep wild birds away from your birds' food and water.
  • Don't use water from sources also accessed by wild birds.
  • Keep bird housing, equipment and other infrastructure clean.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after handling birds or equipment.
  • Keep visitors away from bird areas.
  • Monitor your birds for signs of disease or sudden deaths.
  • Quarantine new birds before introducing them to your flock.

What does this mean for people?

Bird flu can affect humans, but the current risk to the general public remains low. Human infection is rare and generally requires direct and close contact with infected animals.

Bird flu is not considered a food safety risk for chicken meat and eggs when they are handled and cooked correctly.

An outbreak of H5 bird flu in wildlife could result in large numbers of bird and mammal deaths. This may be distressing for people who care about Tasmania’s wildlife or work and volunteer with animals.

Support is available through the Tasmanian Department of Health.

More information

For the latest information, reporting options and advice about H5 bird flu, visit the NRE Tas H5 Bird Flu webpage.

For information about Tasmania's preparedness and response arrangements, see the Tasmanian Avian Influenza Readiness and Response Plan.

 

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