Bird flu cases surge to 40 across NSW coast
Eight new bird flu cases identified in Illawarra and Shoalhaven bring NSW total to 40 and Australia-wide to 542.
New H5 avian influenza cases have been detected in Kiama, Berry, Milton and other NSW coastal locations. Most birds affected were greater crested terns, which gather in large groups along the coast and spread the virus easily.
A myna bird in Berry was also confirmed infected. Dead pelicans found in Bellambi and Warrawong last week remain unconfirmed as bird flu.
NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe said the disease has not reached commercial poultry flocks and the risk to human health remains low. The detections are considered expected and the NSW government says it is well prepared.
People who find sick or dead birds should report them to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline without touching them.
- 40
- NSW events
- 542
- Australia-wide events
- greater crested terns
- Primary species affected
- Penny Sharpe
- Minister
Why it mattersBird flu is spreading rapidly through wild birds along the NSW coast, though commercial farms remain safe and human risk is low.
AustraliaNSW residents should watch for sick or dead birds on beaches and lagoons and report them to authorities, but face no direct human health threat.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 8 d ago
