REDLAND City Council is liaising with Biosecurity Queensland following confirmation of a suspected case of avian influenza on nearby Moreton Island.
A deceased migratory seabird — a giant petrel — found washed up on the island returned a suspected positive pathology result for H5N1 bird flu.
The bird is undergoing further testing for final confirmation.
Acting Mayor Julie Talty said Council had been advised of the suspected case and was awaiting the results of further testing.
“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.
Residents have been warned to avoid contact with sick or dead wild birds, wildlife and their surrounding environment.
People should not touch or collect the animals but, if it is safe, should record the number and species involved, the location and the date and time of the sighting.
Reports of sick or dead wild birds should be made to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888, which operates around the clock, or by calling 13 25 23
