If a farm outbreak occurs

State and territory governments will implement and communicate advice on biosecurity measures in their jurisdiction. They will follow a risk-based approach.

Australia’s current national policy for managing H5 bird flu (avian influenza) outbreaks is described in AUSVETPLAN. Response measures for affected premises and at-risk animals may include rapid detection, containment and eradication using stamping out, movement controls, surveillance and other biosecurity measures.

AUSVETPLAN is a suite of nationally-agreed plans for responding to emergency animal disease (EAD) incidents in Australia.

Check the local advice in your state or territory

How H5 bird flu spreads

Infected birds can spread the H5 bird flu virus through body fluids, droppings and feathers.

The virus can also spread through the air, or on contaminated clothing, shoes, vehicles, equipment and water. Human infections of this H5 bird flu strain are rare. There has been no human case of this strain reported in Australia.

Signs of H5 bird flu

Signs of H5 bird flu usually appear in several or all birds in a flock. They include:

• 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.

Livestock producers should also keep watch for signs of H5 bird flu. This can include drops in production.

Protect your livestock

Good biosecurity reduces the risk of disease entering and spreading on your property.

You should: 

• quarantine new stock before entering the flock/herd
• minimise contact between livestock and wild birds where possible
• limit visitors to your property
• ensure vehicles, equipment and footwear are clean and disinfected.

Reduce the attractiveness of your property to wild birds and scavenger species such as foxes and rodents.

This may include:

• cover feed and water sources and storage areas to prevent access by wild birds and other wildlife
• clean up feed waste that may attract wild birds
• use netting where appropriate
• remove access to standing water near areas where livestock reside.

Current risk to non-poultry livestock

While H5 bird flu mainly affects birds, it can cross species. In some cases, other animals can be infected after contact with infected birds or other animals. Independent risk assessments have assessed the potential risk to Australian livestock from H5 bird flu in wild birds.

• The risk to dairy and pork industries is estimated to be low.
• The risk to beef cattle, sheep and goats is estimated to be negligible.

Preparedness planning and biosecurity remain essential to minimise any potential impacts.

Prepare a biosecurity plan

Strong biosecurity is the most effective way to prevent the spread of H5 bird flu.

Producers and farm workers must use effective on-farm biosecurity and hygiene measures. This will help protect you and your livestock from disease.

Follow the actions detailed in your biosecurity plan to reduce the risk of H5 bird flu and other diseases coming onto your farm.

Poultry

For poultry producers, there are five manuals. Each covering different parts of the Australian poultry industries. These are:

• National Water Biosecurity Manual - Poultry Production
• National Farm Biosecurity Manual - Poultry Production
• National Farm Biosecurity Technical Manual for Egg Production
• Farm Biosecurity Manual for the Duck Meat Industry
• National Farm Biosecurity Manual for the Ratite Industry

Download the biosecurity manuals for poultry industry (Farm biosecurity website).

Industry links:

• Egg Farmers of Australia
• Australian Chicken Meat Federation
• Australian Chicken Growers Council
• Planning and environment guideline for establishing meat chicken farms
• Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Poultry

Livestock

Industry links:

• Farm Biosecurity
• Risk assessment of H5 bird flu in Australian dairy cattle and other livestock

Watch:

• Webinar: Preparing for H5 avian influenza (bird flu)
• Dairy Australia H5 bird flu risks to Australian dairy cattle