The Victorian Government has advised the Australian Government that it is investigating an incident of avian influenza in a Victorian poultry farm. The Australian Government has enacted its emergency response plans to support the Victorian Government response.
Further investigations are being carried out by the Victorian Government and the CSIRO Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness to determine whether the type of virus involved, including whether it is a high pathogenicity avian influenza virus.
Confirmatory laboratory testing is still being completed, however we know from preliminary results that this is not the same strain as the one being reported overseas, included in the United States and Antarctica.
The farm has been pre-emptively placed under quarantine.
Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Beth Cookson, is working closely with Victoria’s Chief Veterinary Officer to coordinate the response.
For more information about how Australia’s nationally agreed AUSVETPLAN Response Strategy for Avian Influenza visit animalhealthaustralia.com.au.
To read the statement from Agriculture Victoria visit their website.
- If you are a poultry farmer, or a backyard poultry or bird owners you also have a part to play a part in monitoring for outbreaks and managing animal health:
- You should be aware of the signs of avian influenza.
- You should also take time to review your biosecurity plan.
- For more information visit: agriculture.gov.au/birdflu
- Biosecurity is a shared responsibility. Report any suspicious bird deaths to Emergency Animal Disease Hotline 1800 675 888.
