Minister Alerts Australia to Potential Arrival of New Bird Flu Variant

August 11, 2024 TruthUSA

Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek expressed concerns that avian influenza could pose an extinction risk to certain bird species.

Addressing the issue, Plibersek emphasized the government’s serious approach to the threat of bird flu potentially entering the country.

The highly pathogenic H5 strain of bird flu has been detected in various regions globally, prompting Plibersek to caution, “The new H5 variant is coming for us.”

She stressed the need for a united effort involving public and private entities to prepare for the impending arrival of this new variant.

“We are working closely with state and territory governments to address this issue,” she stated at the 2024 Zoo and Aquarium Association Annual Conference.

She further highlighted that the government’s primary concern is the potential impact on bird species already at risk of extinction.

Plibersek also mentioned that avian influenza affects not just birds but also mammals, with seals and lions being particularly vulnerable.

Plibersek added, “The upcoming spring bird migration from the northern hemisphere is a critical period of heightened risk.”

According to reports, penguins, pelicans, sea lions, and dairy cows have suffered from the fast-spreading H5N1 avian influenza strain, threatening the survival of entire species.

Expressing concerns about another strain, the government has detected H7 high pathogenicity avian influenza at multiple poultry farms in Australia in recent months.

In Victoria, H7N3 and H7N9 strains were identified, prompting strict measures to contain the spread.

Additionally, a human case of H5N1 infection was reported in Victoria, but the risk of further human cases is deemed low by authorities.

Meanwhile, in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, avian influenza cases have also been confirmed, but the strains differ from H5N1.

Despite the ongoing situation, experts emphasize that current surveillance and response efforts aim to manage outbreaks effectively, reducing the risk to the public.

Furthermore, vaccines like AUDENZ™ exist for certain strains, providing additional protection against potential threats from avian influenza.

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