Australia will evacuate all 24 researchers from Macquarie Island in October. H5 bird flu has not reached the island yet. But the team needs to leave to protect their mental health. A deadly outbreak could kill seal pups during breeding season.
Why it mattersThe decision shows how seriously Australia takes H5 bird flu threats to remote wildlife. Researchers witness potential mass deaths while working in extreme isolation. That takes an emotional toll.
AustraliaAustralia's Antarctic Program is withdrawing staff from a key research station, signalling the severity of H5's spread and impact on sub-Antarctic ecosystems.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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