Australia intensifies avian influenza surveillance as H5N1 cases rise

AUSTRALIA – Australian authorities have stepped up surveillance and testing efforts for highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) after a second state reported a positive case, raising concerns about the spread of the virus among wild bird populations.

A migratory bird in South Australia has tested positive for H5N1, according to state Premier Peter Malinauskas. The case follows Australia’s first confirmed mainland detections earlier this week near Esperance in Western Australia, where authorities are also investigating a suspected third case.

The latest developments have prompted increased monitoring of wildlife and livestock across affected regions. Ground surveillance teams and drone operations are being deployed at sea lion breeding sites along South Australia’s western coastline, while testing frequency has been increased in areas considered at high risk.

Australian Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said there is currently no threat to public health and reassured consumers that poultry products remain safe.

“Chicken meat and eggs, as prepared normally, are perfectly safe to eat,” Collins said.

Enhanced monitoring as authorities investigate additional cases

Western Australian authorities are expecting to confirm a third H5N1 case after submitting 11 samples for laboratory analysis. The testing follows numerous reports of sick and dead wild birds in the region surrounding Esperance.

The recent detections mark a significant development for Australia, which until now had remained the only continent without a confirmed mainland outbreak of H5N1. The virus was previously detected only on the remote sub-Antarctic territory of Heard Island in late 2025.

In response to the outbreak, Australia has strengthened biosecurity measures on poultry farms, expanded wild bird surveillance programmes, vaccinated vulnerable bird species and conducted disease-response exercises aimed at limiting the spread of the virus.

Papua New Guinea eases poultry import restrictions

The confirmed cases initially prompted neighbouring Papua New Guinea to temporarily suspend imports of Australian poultry meat and poultry products.

However, Collins said Papua New Guinea has since lifted the ban, although certain restrictions remain in place while authorities continue to assess the situation.

Papua New Guinea is Australia’s largest export destination for poultry products, importing goods worth approximately A$44 million (US$30.4 million) in 2023. Australian and Papua New Guinean authorities are continuing discussions to ensure trade can proceed while maintaining biosecurity safeguards.

Although human infections remain rare, H5N1 has caused significant disruptions to poultry industries worldwide in recent years, leading to large-scale flock losses, supply shortages and higher poultry meat and egg prices in many markets.

Australian officials said surveillance and containment efforts will continue as authorities work to prevent the virus from reaching commercial poultry operations.

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