Australia launches bird flu public campaign as 652 cases recorded
Australia's federal government has launched a six-week public campaign on H5N1 bird flu as cases reach 652.
The federal government has started a national campaign on H5N1 bird flu. The campaign runs for six weeks across television, radio, and social media.
Federal Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said the campaign gives practical advice for people who find sick or dead birds. 652 bird flu events have been recorded across Australia: 319 in South Australia, 208 in Victoria, 67 in NSW, 45 in Tasmania, 10 in Western Australia, and 2 in Queensland.
South Australia is calling for an experimental American vaccine to be approved and tested to protect endangered Australian sea lions. Five of these animals have tested positive in the state.
Experts say the vaccine would need to go through regulatory approval and animal ethics committees. This process could take months.
The vaccine has shown promise in seal and sea lion trials overseas but remains highly experimental.
- 652
- Cases recorded
- 319
- South Australia cases
- Six weeks
- Campaign duration
- Five in South Australia
- Sea lions tested positive
Why it mattersBird flu is spreading across Australia. Protecting people and endangered wildlife takes coordinated public education and access to experimental treatments.
AustraliaAustralian sea lions, already endangered, face a new threat from bird flu, while Australians are urged to report sick birds and avoid contact with dead wildlife.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 8 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
