Bird Flu in Australia – What Sea Lake Residents Need to Know

Recent reports have confirmed the spread of H5 bird flu (avian influenza) into Australia. There have now been 4 confirmed detections in Western Australia, 1 confirmed detection in South Australia, and New South Wales is currently investigating its first suspected positive case after a Giant Petrel found at Hawks Nest tested positive for H5 bird flu. Samples have been sent for confirmatory testing.

At this stage, bird flu has not been detected in commercial poultry flocks, captive birds or any other birds in NSW, and there is no evidence of widespread transmission or mass mortality in wildlife.

The reassuring news is that the risk to the general public in Australia remains very low.

👉 Read the latest government updates:

Australia has well-established national response plans, and animal health authorities continue to closely monitor the situation.

What is bird flu?

Bird flu is a virus that mainly affects wild birds and poultry. It is different from the seasonal flu that circulates in people each winter.

The current strain, H5N1, has caused significant outbreaks overseas, resulting in widespread illness and death in poultry, wild birds and some marine mammals.

While bird flu can occasionally infect humans, this is very rare and usually occurs after close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.

Importantly, there have been no human cases of the current H5N1 strain in Australia.

Can I catch bird flu?

For most people, the risk is extremely low.

You are unlikely to become infected through everyday activities such as shopping, walking outdoors or eating poultry products.

Most human infections reported overseas have occurred in people who had prolonged, close contact with infected poultry or contaminated environments.

Although H5 bird flu spreads easily between birds, person-to-person spread is extremely rare, and there is currently no evidence of community transmission in Australia.

Is it safe to eat chicken and eggs?

Yes.

Chicken, turkey and eggs remain safe to eat when they are:

  • Properly handled
  • Stored correctly
  • Thoroughly cooked

There is no evidence that properly cooked poultry or eggs spread bird flu.

What should I do if I find a sick or dead bird?

If you come across multiple sick or dead birds or other wildlife:

  • Don't touch them.
  • Keep children and pets away.
  • If possible, note the location.
  • Report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

You can also report online or find more information here:

https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/pests-diseases-weeds/animal/avian-influenza

Always wash your hands thoroughly if you've been near birds or bird droppings. If you're out and about, carrying a hand sanitiser is a convenient way to maintain good hand hygiene until you can wash your hands properly.

👉 Available at Sea Lake Pharmacy

What are the symptoms?

Bird flu symptoms can be similar to seasonal influenza and may include:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose
  • Muscle aches
  • Fatigue
  • Occasionally red or sore eyes

If you develop a fever, having a digital thermometer at home can help you monitor your symptoms.

If you've had close contact with sick or dead birds and become unwell within 10 days, seek medical advice promptly and let your healthcare provider know about your exposure.

For common cold and flu symptoms, simple measures such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (when appropriate), staying well hydrated and getting plenty of rest can help you feel more comfortable. Your pharmacist can advise which treatment is most suitable for you.

👉 Winter essentials available at Sea Lake Pharmacy

Should I still get my annual flu vaccination?

Absolutely.

Although the seasonal flu vaccine does not protect against bird flu, it remains one of the best ways to protect yourself against influenza and reduce your risk of serious illness.

It also helps reduce the chance of being infected with seasonal influenza and bird flu at the same time, reducing opportunities for influenza viruses to change.

The annual flu vaccine is especially important for:

  • Older adults
  • Pregnant women
  • Young children
  • People with chronic medical conditions
  • Healthcare workers
  • Anyone working with poultry or birds

If you're unsure whether you're due for your flu vaccination, speak with our pharmacists.

Learn more about influenza vaccination:
https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/australian-influenza-surveillance-report

Book your flu vaccination with Sea Lake Pharmacy today.
https://www.medadvisor.com.au/Network/SeaLakePharmacy

Looking after your health this winter

While there's no vaccine available for bird flu for the general public, there are simple ways to stay healthy during the winter months.

Maintaining good nutrition, regular exercise and adequate sleep all support your overall wellbeing.

Some people may also benefit from:

particularly if dietary intake is inadequate. Our pharmacists can help you choose supplements that are appropriate for your individual needs.

If you're caring for someone with a respiratory illness, travelling overseas or visiting healthcare settings, you may also wish to keep face masks on hand.

It's also worthwhile keeping a few essentials in your medicine cabinet, including:

  • Digital thermometer
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Paracetamol
  • Ibuprofen
  • Hydralyte

Being prepared means you're less likely to need an urgent trip to the pharmacy when illness strikes.

Our advice

At this stage, there is no need for alarm. The current risk of bird flu to Australians remains low, and Australian authorities continue to actively monitor and respond to the situation.

Continue to practise good hand hygiene, avoid handling sick or dead birds, stay up to date with your vaccinations, and seek medical advice if you develop flu-like symptoms after exposure to sick birds.

Whether you have questions about bird flu, are due for your annual flu vaccination, want advice on whooping cough vaccination, or need help putting together a winter health kit, our friendly team at Sea Lake Pharmacy is here to help.

Helpful Resources

📍 Sea Lake Pharmacy

📞 P. 03 5070 1003

📱 M. 0413 880 455

✉️ admin@sealakepharmacy.com.au

🌐 https://www.sealakepharmacy.com.au

 

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