BIRD FLU (AVIAN INFLUENZA)
WHAT IS BIRD FLU?
Bird Flu (or avian influenza) is a contagious viral disease that primarily affects wild birds, poultry and other domesticated bird species, and can also affect some animals.
With confirmed cases of H5 bird flu now detected in our region, WxNW is sharing this information to help keep tourism operators and the wider community informed, and ensure accurate, up-to-date advice can be shared with visitors.
For current information, monitoring updates and response planning, official guidance is provided by NRE Tasmania and other government agencies.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND SICK OR DEAD BIRDS OR ANIMALS
DO NOT TOUCH
sick or dead birds or animals.
1
Report sudden or large numbers (more than five) of sick or dead birds or animals to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline:
1800 675 888
2
Report small numbers of sick or dead birds or animals using the online reporting form.
3
WHERE TO FIND OFFICIAL INFORMATION
Tasmanian Government / NRE
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NRE Tasmania – Avian Influenza Information (general overview)
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NRE Tasmania – Avian Influenza Readiness and Response Plan (preparedness planning)
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NRE Tasmania – Animal disease reporting form (for reporting small numbers of sick/dead birds/animals)
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Emergency Animal Disease Hotline – 1800 675 888 (report large numbers of sick/dead animals)
Federal-Level & Broader Australian Resources
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Australian Government – Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) – Avian Influenza (national guidance and biosecurity info)
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Animal Health Australia – Avian Influenza (bird flu facts and prevention tips)
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Australian Government - Outbreak (emerging risks regarding animals, plants, pests & diseases)
This above information and links to external resources for general guidance. For the most accurate and up-to-date information specific to Tasmania, please refer to NRE Tasmania.
WxNW is sharing this information to raise awareness and encourages all operators and community members to follow advice from official authorities.