AVIAN INFLUENZA (BIRD FLU) UPDATE

By Zoe Levesque | Dated July 9, 2026

Recent detections of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5 bird flu) in wild birds mark the first time this strain has been found in mainland Australia, with one case reported in NSW, in a giant petrel in the Hawks Nest area. While this is an important development for wildlife and agriculture, the current risk to pets and people remains low. Australian authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and there is currently no evidence that the virus has spread to commercial poultry, backyard flocks, or livestock.

If you come across a dead bird, do not touch them. Record what you see and the bird’s location, and report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888. For more information, please visit the Australian government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry or the NSW Department of Primary Industries.

At this time we are maintaining our ongoing commitment to our avian patients. In order to keep our staff safe please keep the following in mind: If you come across injured or sick wild birds please call WIRES on 1300 094 737 for further advice. Before bringing injured or sick wild birds or your own pet birds to Gordon Vet Hospital please call us on 94983000.

Although uncommon, cats are particularly susceptible to H5 avian influenza if they consume or have close contact with infected birds. Dogs appear to be less susceptible but can occasionally become infected after exposure to sick or dead birds. Signs of infection include lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, breathing issues, and neurological issues. However, these are common signs of other types of illnesses, so do not necessarily indicate infection with avian influenza. If your pet becomes unwell after contact with wild birds, prompt veterinary assessment is recommended.

Precautions to take to reduce the risk of exposure of pets are as follows:

• Keep cats indoors where possible.
• Prevent dogs from investigating or retrieving sick or dead birds.
• Do not allow pets to eat raw poultry or wild birds.
• Wash your hands after handling birds, poultry equipment or backyard chickens.
• Supervise pets during walks in areas where sick or dead birds have been reported.

Owners of backyard poultry should maintain good biosecurity by:

• Preventing contact between domestic poultry and wild birds.
• Keeping feed and water covered.
• Reporting unusual illness or sudden deaths in birds to your state agriculture authority.
• Avoiding unnecessary movement of birds during outbreaks.

While there is no need for alarm, it is sensible to stay informed and minimise your pet’s contact with wild birds. We will continue to monitor updates from Australian animal health authorities and provide further information if the situation changes.