Australia has confirmed its first case of bird flu in a mammal, a development the federal agriculture minister described as concerning but not unexpected. A long-nosed fur seal at Beachport, south of Adelaide, tested positive for the H5 strain of avian influenza.
"This is sadly our first confirmed case of H5 bird flu in a mammal in Australia," said Federal Agriculture Minister Julie Collins. She noted that it is anticipated to see infections in other wildlife, particularly marine mammals, in areas with high infection rates in wild birds. The detection in the individual seal does not appear to be associated with other sick or dead marine mammals, and infection likely occurred through exposure to contaminated environments or infected wild birds.
This development comes as bird flu cases surge across the country. A total of 298 cases have been recorded in Australia, with 183 in South Australia.
Widespread Bird Deaths Prompt Vaccination Consideration
Significant bird deaths in South Australia and Tasmania have highlighted the escalating outbreak. Over 1,000 dead crested terns were detected on remote islands off South Australia, according to Premier Peter Malinauskas. In Tasmania, 28 dead penguins and three crested terns were found on King Island, prompting the deployment of specialist teams for testing.
South Australian authorities are seeking approval for a vaccination program for penguins and potentially other species. The program would initially focus on captive animals, such as those at Adelaide Zoo and Cleland Wildlife Park, though a timeline for its rollout has not been established. Premier Malinauskas described the loss of more than 1,000 birds as "deeply concerning" and stated the state government is treating these events with "the utmost seriousness."