Killer bird flu strain on the brink of invading Australia: ‘It would be horrific’

Aussies are no strangers to the challenges that nature can throw our way.

But there's a new threat on the horizon that could have serious implications for our farmers, wildlife, and potentially our health: the highly pathogenic avian influenza, known as H5N1.

This deadly bird flu strain has already wreaked havoc globally, and now it's knocking on Australia's door.



The H5N1 strain is not just another flu; it's a virulent virus that primarily affects birds but can potentially infect humans.

With the warmer months approaching, bringing with them the migration of wild birds, the risk of H5N1 reaching Australian shores is increasing.


shutterstock_2153620181.jpg
A deadly bird flu strain is set to invade Australia. Credit: Shutterstock


This comes when egg purchase limits are still in place at major supermarkets across multiple states, and over two million commercial birds have been culled nationwide due to the H7N3 strain.

Farmers are on high alert, with Victorian Farmers Federation Vice President and Egg Producer Danyel Cucinotta expressing grave concerns.

'It would be horrific for the agricultural industry, and it would be horrific for the native wildlife because it won't just be agriculture that gets impacted,' she said.

The potential arrival of H5N1 is not just a problem for those in the agricultural sector. The Invasive Species Council and BirdLife Australia are calling for increased federal funding to protect threatened wildlife.

With only $580,000 currently allocated for early detection and response to H5N1 in Australian wildlife, experts are warning that more than this will be needed to have a meaningful impact.



The upcoming emergency meeting on 18 October, which will bring together state environment and agriculture ministers, is a critical juncture.

BirdLife Australia Chief Executive Kate Millar emphasised the importance of this gathering: 'We need them to recognise that the current allocation of funding for protecting Australia’s birds and other wildlife from this deadly strain of bird flu won’t have any meaningful impact.'

‘This virus is on Australia’s doorstep. When it arrives, the window of opportunity to respond will be short.’

Advocacy Director of the Invasive Species Council, Jack Gough, echoed this sentiment, urging for real commitment and clear national preparation milestones.

The comparison to the $66 million allocated to prepare for African swine flu highlights the disparity in funding and the urgency needed to prevent wildlife deaths and potential extinctions of species.

‘We need real money committed and clear national preparation milestones agreed to which focus on actually reducing wildlife deaths and stopping extinctions of wildlife like Tassie devils, Australian sea lions, black swans,’ Gough said.



The disruption to the supply chain is already being felt, with egg producers struggling to meet demand.

'We actually eat about 19 million eggs a day nationwide,' Cucinotta pointed out.

With over two million birds culled, it could take between six and 18 months for supplies to recover after a single biosecurity outbreak.

The Victorian Farmers Federation is working closely with the state government and has established a working group with the Victorian chief veterinary officer to assess the state's preparedness for H5N1.

This group will review the recent H7 outbreak, identify gaps, and suggest improved response protocols.



Cucinotta stressed that even those with backyard hens have a role to play in the biosecurity chain.

‘People with backyard hens, you have a responsibility in the biosecurity chain as well,’ she said.

‘You absolutely need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of avian influenza and know the animal disease hotline just as much as the person who has 100,000 chickens for commercial production.’

Key Takeaways
  • Farmers and wildlife carers are being warned about the potential arrival of the deadly H5N1 bird flu strain in Australia.
  • Over two million commercial birds have been culled nationwide due to H7N3, affecting egg supply and leading to purchase limits at supermarkets.
  • BirdLife Australia and the Invasive Species Council have called for increased federal funding for early detection and response to protect against H5N1.
  • The Victorian Farmers Federation is urging farmers to have a biosecurity plan in place, highlighting the importance of awareness and preparedness among both commercial operators and those with backyard hens.
Are you taking any precautions to protect yourself from potential bird flu exposure? Share them with us in the comments below.
 
Sponsored
Who said it only affects chickens and humans.
The article clearly states they are worried about it being introduced by migratory birds.
If you bothered to read things properly maybe you wouldn't come up with conspiracy theories so readily.
It also says it may
How come it only affects chickens and humans and not other birds another covid scam from billyboy gates and his elitist mates
How come it only affects chickens and humans and not other birds another covid scam from billyboy gates and his elitist mates
Suggest you read up on this....it can affect Australian Wildlife including birds and even mammals....over the world Millions of birds have perished and many thousands of mammals also from this particular strain of bird flu/virus. If migratory birds begin nesting with our native birds then spreading of the virus will occur....likewise if it spreads to mammals and even cats then it will be a disaster.
 
  • Sad
Reactions: Dynamo
People on here keep telling us to 'wake up' and 'check the facts'. Well, I did ... and I don't agree with them, and certainly don't agree with Flat Earthers.
You say you checked the ‘facts’ - fact is just that, FACT. But you don’t agree with the facts?? That just goes to show what you believe then isn’t ‘fact’, it is a figment of your own imagination! Or have I interpreted your sentence wrong?
 
  • Like
Reactions: Veggiepatch
You say you checked the ‘facts’ - fact is just that, FACT. But you don’t agree with the facts?? That just goes to show what you believe then isn’t ‘fact’, it is a figment of your own imagination! Or have I interpreted your sentence wrong?
I've checked conspiratory facts/beliefs. It's not difficult to do on the worldwide web.
I don't agree with conspiracy notions. People have strong viewpoints about it, but each to their own.
 
  • Like
  • Angry
Reactions: Dynamo and Rae2019
I've checked conspiratory facts/beliefs. It's not difficult to do on the worldwide web.
I don't agree with conspiracy notions. People have strong viewpoints about it, but each to their own.
You may have checked but, are the so called facts actual facts? A good percentage of the ‘facts’ and ‘conspiracy notions’ are being put out there on the web by an enormous number of people who have no factual and accurate knowledge of what they think/say on the web. And that includes access to scammers and ‘theorists’. I do read some of the rubbish on the web but I DO NOT believe everything and DO NOT FOLLOW any of it in my life.

Lastly, I do say the same as you - EACH TO HIS OWN - and we all have to bear the consequences of all our actions, no one can/should force us to do/believe what they say. Scammers are getting the better of so many because people pdon’t have their eyes and ears open.

All the best “Penny4” - my sincere wishes to all to keep well and, please everyone, keep eyes, ears & minds open and alert.
 
Well, I have to say I was very disappointed with the response I got from the lady who answered the phone of the designated phone number for reporting animal deaths, after reporting the death of a magpie which just dropped from the roof of our local Bunnings store here in Melton Victoria.
I felt her attitude was that I was interrupting her day. She didn't seem interested at all.
I would have thought someone would come and remove the bird for testing for the virus. No, she only said she would log my call.
The bird had no indication of trauma, it just fell from the roof.
I don't get it. They ask us to report these deaths, then sound as I was troubling her.
I don't get it. They don't check the bird. Why report the death?
 
  • Haha
  • Like
Reactions: Dynamo and Rickcb63
Keep up the scare mongering. People are sick of this ongoing viral spreading campaign: another ploy so they can produce another injection to make another lot of elite millionaires.
Could not agree more.
That is exactly what Covid was alI about.
Pharmaceutical companies, health ministers and politicians making $$$$$$$$$.
 
Well, I have to say I was very disappointed with the response I got from the lady who answered the phone of the designated phone number for reporting animal deaths, after reporting the death of a magpie which just dropped from the roof of our local Bunnings store here in Melton Victoria.
I felt her attitude was that I was interrupting her day. She didn't seem interested at all.
I would have thought someone would come and remove the bird for testing for the virus. No, she only said she would log my call.
The bird had no indication of trauma, it just fell from the roof.
I don't get it. They ask us to report these deaths, then sound as I was troubling her.
I don't get it. They don't check the bird. Why report the death?
Seriously 😝🦅
 
  • Angry
Reactions: magpie1
Keep up the scare mongering. People are sick of this ongoing viral spreading campaign: another ploy so they can produce another injection to make another lot of elite millionaires.
But even more people are sick of your rubbish.
Why don't you post a copy of your credentials in this subject to back up what you say???
 
  • Like
Reactions: Veggiepatch
Well, I have to say I was very disappointed with the response I got from the lady who answered the phone of the designated phone number for reporting animal deaths, after reporting the death of a magpie which just dropped from the roof of our local Bunnings store here in Melton Victoria.
I felt her attitude was that I was interrupting her day. She didn't seem interested at all.
I would have thought someone would come and remove the bird for testing for the virus. No, she only said she would log my call.
The bird had no indication of trauma, it just fell from the roof.
I don't get it. They ask us to report these deaths, then sound as I was troubling her.
I don't get it. They don't check the bird. Why report the death?
you can only try jefron....many others may have just passed by without doing even a phone call....RIP brother. :(
 
Do you people actually realise how serious this is if it takes hold in this country.
Complaining about SDC noting it. It has also been reported elsewhere.
You will have something to really complain about if you can't buy any eggs.
If you don't want to read the article and are not interested move on. Easy. I don't recall anything being said about jabs against avian flu and in case you hadn't noticed polio has practically been eliminated except in 3rd world countries where jabs are not used.
Don't you people get tired of coming up with all your conspiracy theories.
and there are still so many idiot sheep out there walking around with masks wrapped around their brains....
 
  • Like
Reactions: Merz64 and Rickcb63

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.

Seniors Discount Club

The SDC searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's Australia
  5. Food and Lifestyle
  6. Money Saving Hacks
  7. Offtopic / Everything else
  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×