A SUSPECTED case of the highly contagious H5N1 bird flu has been detected in a migratory seabird found dead on Moreton Island.
The giant petrel returned a suspected positive pathology result after washing ashore and is now undergoing further testing for final confirmation.
Redland City Council 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.”
Cr Talty said that while the flu mostly affects birds, the disease had 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,” she said.
“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, and the location, date and time of the sighting.
Reports should be made to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888, which operates around the clock, or by calling 13 25 23.
