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Department of Agriculture

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  2. Biosecurity and trade
  3. Pests, diseases and weeds
  4. Animal pests and diseases
  5. Avian Influenza or Bird Flu
  6. Facts about avian influenza (bird flu)

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  • Avian influenza (bird flu)
    • Facts about avian influenza
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    • Information for veterinarians

Facts about avian influenza (bird flu)

Species at risk

All bird species are considered vulnerable to bird flu, including:

  • chickens
  • turkeys
  • pheasants
  • partridges
  • quail
  • pigeons
  • ducks
  • geese
  • guinea fowl
  • ostriches.

Signs of bird flu

Signs of disease usually appear in several or all birds in a flock, including:

  • sudden death
  • lethargy or reluctance to walk, eat or drink
  • droopy appearance or ruffled feathers
  • head or limb swelling
  • bruising of the wattle, comb, feet or skin
  • respiratory signs such as panting, nasal discharge or sneezing
  • diarrhoea
  • unusual head or neck posture, incoordination, inability to walk or stand
  • unusual reduction in egg production.

Bird flu can only be confirmed through laboratory testing of samples collected by a veterinarian or government animal health officer.

How the virus spreads

If poultry get the disease, it can spread between birds or when contaminated poultry products, feed, equipment or other items are moved between sites. The bird flu virus can survive for long periods in droppings, respiratory secretions, water, feathers, eggs and meat.

Outbreaks in Australia

Since 1976, there have been 9 outbreaks of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) strains in commercial birds in Australia.

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Page last updated: 12 December 2024

We acknowledge the continuous connection of First Nations Traditional Owners and Custodians to the lands, seas and waters of Australia. We recognise their care for and cultivation of Country. We pay respect to Elders past and present, and recognise their knowledge and contribution to the productivity, innovation and sustainability of Australia’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry industries.

Artwork: Protecting our Country, Growing our Future
© Amy Allerton, contemporary Aboriginal Artist of the Gumbaynggirr, Bundjalung and Gamilaroi nations.

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