Image: Department for Environment and Water
South Australia has now recorded 285 confirmed H5 bird flu events, with three new detections involving a little penguin, a fluttering shearwater and a silver gull.
The latest cases have been detected across three parts of the state, including metropolitan Adelaide, the Fleurieu Peninsula and Limestone Coast.
A little penguin tested positive at West Beach, while a fluttering shearwater was detected at Carpenter Rocks and a silver gull at Raukkan.
The South Australian Government reports H5 bird flu detections as “events” in line with national protocols, meaning each event can involve one or more animals rather than representing a single individual bird.
There have now been 2,098 tests conducted since January 1, with 285 confirmed H5 bird flu events recorded across South Australia.
Authorities have also received 10,146 reports through the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline since June 20.
There are currently no H5 bird flu detections in poultry or other livestock, while authorities continue to advise that the risk to human health remains low.
The state government says surveillance and monitoring is continuing across primary industries, the wildlife sector and the wider community as authorities track the movement of the virus.
South Australians are being urged to remain vigilant and report sick or dead birds and other wildlife.
People should avoid touching sick or dead wildlife and instead record what they see before reporting it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Pet owners concerned about their animals and possible exposure to H5 bird flu are advised to contact their veterinarian.
An interactive map showing current detection locations and affected species is available through the South Australian Government’s bird flu website.
The next community forum on H5 bird flu will be held at Willunga on Tuesday, October 6.
