Redland City Council is liaising with Biosecurity Queensland following confirmation of a suspected case of avian influenza (bird flu) on Moreton Island.
A deceased migratory seabird (giant petrel) that was found washed up on Moreton Island has returned a suspected positive pathology result for H5N1 bird flu.
Acting Mayor Julie Talty said Council had been advised that the deceased bird was undergoing further testing for final confirmation.
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“H5N1 bird flu is a viral disease of birds that is highly contagious,” she said.
“Sick birds display signs of respiratory distress and inability to fly or stand.
“The virus spreads between animals via droppings, respiratory secretions, and contaminated environments.
“While it mostly affects birds, the disease has been known to infect some other mammals.
“The Queensland Government has advised that human infection is rare and the risk to human health remains low.
“The national response to bird flu is being led by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAFF), with Biosecurity Queensland being the lead response agency in Queensland.
“Council is encouraging everyone in our community to visit the DAFF website for a wealth of resources about bird flu, including tips on how to keep your birds and other pets safe.”
Council will continue liaising with Biosecurity Queensland and other lead agencies to determine the appropriate response should sick or dead wildlife be reported in Redland City.
What to do if you see sick or dead animals:
- AVOID contact with sick or dead wild birds or wildlife and their environment. Do not touch or collect sick or dead wild birds or wildlife.
- RECORD what you see. If safe, record information on the number of dead birds/animals, species, location, date, and time.
- REPORT sick or dead wild birds to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 (24/7) or 13 25 23.
