Markets 
The state government says evidence of local transmission of H5 bird flu in South Australia is “concerning, but not unexpected” after a further 20 cases of the disease were recorded nationwide.
However, acting Agriculture and Food Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said protecting the state’s wildlife and poultry industry remain the government’s top priority in monitoring the virus.
Earlier this week, evidence of local transmission was identified among Australian greater crested terns in South Australia.
In its latest updates, the federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry confirmed a further 20 birds from Kangaroo Island and the south-east coast of South Australia had tested positive, including a silver gull found at the town of Robe.
Australian Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Beth Cookson, said there have now been 53 confirmed or presumed positive detections of H5 bird flu in Australia.
“This is the first confirmed detection in a silver gull in Australia,” she said.
“There remain no detections in poultry or in our agricultural production system.
“The risk to human health remains low.”
The latest government update has come less than 48 hours after the H5N1 variant of the virus was detected in Victoria for the first time, in a crested tern in Portland.
According to the WA government, there is currently no evidence of any large-scale wildlife deaths, nor evidence of infection in poultry or the state’s agricultural production system.
Sanderson said WA has been preparing for the arrival and spread of the virus.
“Evidence of local transmission in South Australia is concerning, but it is not unexpected given the way H5 bird flu has spread overseas,” she said.
“Our surveillance, testing and response activities are continuing across the State.
“Protecting Western Australia’s unique wildlife and our poultry industry remains our priority, and we will continue working closely with the Commonwealth, industry and wildlife experts as the situation evolves.”
Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn said there have been more than 2400 reports to the WA Emergency Animal Disease Hotline since June 19.
“I thank Western Australians for their continued vigilance,” he said.
“Anyone who sees sick or dead birds or marine mammals should avoid contact with them, including not handling the birds or animals. They should then record what they have seen by taking photos or a video. Finally, they should report what they have seen to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
“While not every report will result in birds needing to be collected or tested, every report plays an important role in helping understand what is happening in the environment.”
With Alexander Darling
From our partners
Read the full article here
