This blog has now been discontinued.
-
Subscribe to our breaking news newsletter, download our free app, or listen to our daily news podcast.
During a recent expedition to Heard Island in the sub-Antarctic region, Australian researchers detected indicators suggestive of H5 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in elephant seals.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) clarified that while there has been no definitive confirmation of bird flu, these observations highlight the critical importance of Australia maintaining vigilance and preparedness against a potential outbreak. Notably, Australia remains the only continent free from the highly transmissible H5 bird flu strain.
Scientists reported an unusual increase in mortality rates among elephant seals on Heard Island over the past few days. However, no abnormal death rates were noted among other local wildlife, such as penguins and various seabird species.
Detecting signs consistent with H5 avian influenza in the island’s wildlife aligns with expectations given the region’s ecological dynamics.