Australia Confirms First Mass Seabird Deaths from H5N1 Bird Flu

Australian authorities have confirmed the country's first large-scale seabird deaths caused by the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus, raising concerns that the disease could spread further among wild bird populations.

The outbreak was detected near Cape Jaffa in South Australia, where officials found 49 dead and 35 sick greater crested terns during an aerial wildlife survey. Laboratory tests confirmed the birds were infected with the H5N1 strain of bird flu.

Australia's Agriculture Minister, Julie Collins, warned that more wildlife could be affected as the virus spreads through the natural environment.

Despite the outbreak in wild birds, authorities said there is still no evidence that H5N1 has reached commercial poultry farms. Biosecurity measures remain in place across the country to protect poultry and prevent the virus from entering the agricultural sector.

Since the virus was first detected in Australia in June, 74 confirmed cases have been recorded, with most occurring in South Australia, although infections have also been reported in Western Australia and Queensland.

Health officials stressed that the risk to the general public remains low, noting that human infections are rare and usually occur only after close contact with infected animals.

Australia and neighboring New Zealand have strengthened surveillance, farm biosecurity, wildlife monitoring, and emergency response plans as they work to contain the spread of the virus.

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