H5 bird flu - what you need to know
H5 bird flu is a viral disease of birds found globally.
H5 bird flu differs from other bird flu strains and has caused mass mortalities in poultry and many wild birds overseas. It can also affect some mammals.
H5 bird flu:
- spreads more easily than other bird flu strains
- can kill large numbers of wild birds
- has no effective treatment
- usually leads to poor outcomes for infected birds and mammals
As H5 bird flu is spreading globally and is now confirmed in Australia, early reporting of sick or dead wild birds and wildlife is important. If the virus spreads further, it may infect wild birds and other native animals.
How to report
Report sick or dead wildlife online
Report clusters of 5 or more sick or dead wild birds of any species, anywhere in Victoria.
Report even one sick or dead:
- wild seabird, waterbird, shorebird or bird of prey
- marine mammal (e.g. seal, dolphin).
Accurate reports help us respond quickly.
To report sick or dead poultry or livestock please call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline immediately on 1800 675 888.
Signs of bird flu
Keep watch for signs of bird flu.
Wild birds
- can’t stand, walk, or fly properly
- droopy or puffed-up appearance
- breathing problems (panting or sneezing)
- unusual head or neck posture
- sudden death (especially in large numbers)
Poultry (chickens, ducks, etc.)
The first sign of bird flu may be the sudden death of some poultry. Other signs include:
- rapid drop in feed intake
- sudden drop in egg production
- typical ‘sick bird’ signs - ruffled feathers, depression, closed eyes
- diarrhoea
- birds having trouble breathing, coughing or sneezing
- lethargy or not eating/drinking
- swelling around the head, neck and eyes
- discharge from the eyes (conjunctivitis)
- twisted necks or unusual posture.
H5 bird flu should be considered if a high proportion of a flock or group of birds becomes ill very quickly – progressing from normal to severe illness or death within 24-28 hours.