Avian Influenza (H5N1 Bird Flu) Update


We understand that many of our bird, rabbit and other small mammal owners have concerns and questions about the developing situation surrounding highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as “Bird Flu”. At The Bird Doctors, we are committed to providing up-to-date information, expert veterinary care and enhanced biosecurity measures to protect our patients, their feathered and human counterparts, and the broader community. 

H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as "bird flu", is a highly contagious strain of influenza virus that primarily affects birds. Influenza viruses are known for their ability to mutate and evolve, and H5N1 is one of the strains that has caused significant disease outbreaks in wild birds, pet birds and some mammal species overseas. 

Australia has historically been free from this particular strain. However, recent detections of H5N1 in migratory seabirds and shorebirds arriving on Australian coastlines have highlighted the importance of ongoing vigilance and biosecurity. To date, detections have been limited to birds, and the risk to the general public remains low. 

Why is H5N1 a Concern? 

Australia is home to a remarkable diversity of native bird species, many of which are already threatened or endangered. The introduction of H5N1 presents potential risks to: 

  • Pet birds, including backyard poultry 

  • Native wildlife 

  • Some mammal species that come into contact with infected birds or contaminated environments 

The risk to humans remains low, and human-to-human spread is yet to be proven possible. This virus has infected a range of mammal species overseas, including cats, marine mammals, foxes and other animals exposed to infected birds. 

How Does Bird Flu Spread? 

The virus is primarily spread through contact with infected birds and their secretions, including: 

  • Respiratory discharges (for example, nasal secretions) 

  • Eye discharge 

  • Feather dust and dander 

  • Bird droppings 

The virus can also spread indirectly through contaminated environments. Some examples of such environments include: 

  • Water bowls and ponds 

  • Food sources 

  • Equipment and cages 

  • Footwear and clothing 

  • Soil and outdoor surfaces 

Water is considered a particularly important source of transmission, as the virus can survive and spread in contaminated water sources. 

Signs of H5N1 in Birds 

Bird flu can present in many different ways and is not easily distinguishable from other illnesses. 

Signs may include: 

  • Sudden death 

  • Lethargy and inappetence 

  • Respiratory changes and distress (eg. Nasal discharge, altered breathing rate and pattern) 

  • Swelling of the face and head, potentially with bruising 

  • Neurological signs (eg. Flying abnormally, losing balance, seizuring) 

  • Vomiting and diarrhoea 

  • Changes in egg production 

Importantly, these signs are not specific to avian influenza and can occur with many other diseases. 

The Risk to Pet Birds 

All bird species are considered potentially susceptible to H5N1 infection. 

Pet parrots, aviary birds, pigeons, backyard poultry and other captive birds may be at risk if they come into contact with: 

  • Wild birds 

  • Wild bird droppings 

  • Contaminated food or water 

  • Contaminated surfaces brought into their environment 

Fortunately, simple biosecurity measures can significantly reduce this risk. 

How to Protect Your Bird 

Where possible: 

  • House birds indoors or within fully enclosed aviaries. 

  • Prevent direct contact with wild birds and rodents, including preventing these species from accessing feed and water sources used by pet birds. 

  • Prevent contamination from bird droppings entering enclosures. 

  • Use treated mains water. 

  • Avoid introducing new birds, or at the very least, quarantine any new birds in a completely separate airspace. 

  • Practice a high level of personal hygiene when handling birds or visiting bird environments. 

  • Leave outdoor shoes at the door. 

Some questions to ask yourself: 

  • Can wild birds enter my birds' enclosure? 

  • Can wild birds share food or water with my birds? 

  • Can droppings from wild birds contaminate the enclosure? 

  • Can wild birds perch above my birds? 

If the answer is yes to any of these questions, biosecurity improvements should occur. 

Are Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Rats and Mice at Risk? 

Current evidence suggests the risk of infection in rabbits, guinea pigs, pet rats and mice is low. However, as H5N1 has demonstrated the ability to infect mammal species overseas, exposure should still be minimised. 

The greatest risk remains to be direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. 

To reduce risk: 

  • House small mammals indoors whenever possible. 

  • Prevent wild birds from accessing any outdoor enclosures (cover these!). 

  • Ensure food and water cannot be contaminated by bird droppings. 

  • Avoid feeding grass, forage or vegetation collected from areas heavily frequented by wild birds and/or wild rodents. 

  • Maintain excellent enclosure hygiene. 

 

If a pet bird becomes unwell... 

Remember, the signs of bird flu are not unique to bird flu. Many illnesses have similar signs, and the risk of a pet bird contracting bird flu, where optimised home biosecurity practices are observed, remains low. Early intervention for unwell birds remains essential, regardless of the underlying illness. As a guide, we recommend you: 

Be Aware 

Monitor for changes in behaviour, appetite, droppings or activity levels. 

Isolate 

Separate any unwell bird from other birds immediately. 

Call First 

Contact your avian veterinarian before travelling to the clinic. Discuss your bird's symptoms and history so appropriate advice can be provided. 

 

What Should I Do if I Find a Sick or Dead Wild Bird? 

AVOID 

Do not touch, move or transport the bird. 

RECORD 

Note the location, date and time; if possible and safe to do so, pin a location on a digital map. Keep a description of what was observed. Any extra detail, such as the species, or even colour and size of the bird, is helpful for identifying the bird/s.   

REPORT 

Report sick or dead wild birds immediately to: 

Emergency Animal Disease Hotline 
1800 675 888 (24 hours) 

or visit the Agriculture Victoria website.  

By taking simple precautions today, we can help protect our feathered companions, our small mammals, and Australia's extraordinary wildlife for the future. 

The team at The Rabbit & Bird doctors have answered some of your Frequently Asked Questions about H5N1 in a Tiny Teachable!