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 in poultry is described in AUSVETPLAN. This is rapid detection, containment and eradication using stamping out, movement controls, surveillance and broader biosecurity measures.

AUSVETPLAN contains the nationally-agreed approach for responding to emergency animal disease (EAD) incidents in Australia.

Check the local advice in your state or territory

How bird flu spreads

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

The virus can also spread via:

• contaminated dust or air
• contaminated clothing, shoes, vehicles, equipment and water
• other infected animals.

Human infections of this H5 bird flu strain are rare. There has been no human case of this strain reported in Australia.

Signs of bird flu

Signs of 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 bird flu. This can include drops in production.

If you suspect bird flu in your poultry or other animals, contact your vet for advice.

Protect your livestock

Bird flu mainly affects birds but can sometimes infect other animals.

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

You should: 

• quarantine new stock before entering the 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. This may include:

• cover or manage feed and water sources
• use netting where appropriate
• remove access to standing water near areas where livestock reside.

Current risk

An independent risk assessment has found that if H5 bird flu establishes 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 bird flu.

Producers and farm workers must use effective on-farm biosecurity and hygiene measures. This will help protect your birds or animals and yourself from disease.

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

Poultry

Biosecurity manuals:

• National Farm Biosecurity Manual - Poultry Production
• National Water Biosecurity Manual - Poultry Production
• Chickens – Farm Biosecurity

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