Australian authorities have intensified surveillance and testing after two cases of the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu were confirmed in migratory seabirds, as local media reported on Wednesday that several specimens were found dead on remote beaches.
Tests Underway in South Australia
Tests are currently being conducted in South Australia after two dead sub-Antarctic seabirds and a pelican were discovered on Monday near Fowlers Bay. This location is more than 1,200 kilometers east of Esperance in Western Australia, where the first two confirmed cases were reported.
South Australia state Primary Industries Minister Claire Scriven told Australian Broadcasting Corporation Radio that it could be several days before results from the samples become available. "We hope this doesn't get to South Australia, but we know, of course, that it may," Scriven said.
No Confirmed Cases Yet in South Australia
A South Australia Primary Industries Department spokesperson stated that there are currently no confirmed bird flu cases in the state. However, the department will investigate any reports of sick or dead birds and will alert the public if a positive case is found.
