Egg industry monitoring H5 avian influenza detections in Australia

Australian Eggs is continuing to support the Australian Government in responding to detections of H5 avian influenza (AI) in wild birds in Western Australia, South Australia and New South Wales. 

“There have been 15 confirmed detections of H5 avian influenza in Western Australia, South Australia and New South Wales since 20 June, consisting of migratory seabirds and an Australia seabird” said Australian Eggs Managing Director, Rowan McMonnies. 

“It was inevitable that there would be H5 avian influenza detections in Australia but it remains unclear how far this might spread."

“It is a positive sign that the detections are limited to seabirds and there have been none in resident wildlife or commercial poultry, despite significant increased surveillance.”

“This will need to hold for several weeks before confidence can start to grow that the detections will remain isolated.”

“If it doesn’t, we have response protocols in place and will work with authorities to contain the incidents.”

“The delay in H5 avian influenza being detected in Australia has given us more time to prepare and apply learnings from overseas so that we are in the best position to respond.”

“Egg production is unaffected with over 20 million eggs being consumed each day and eggs remain safe to eat with no risk to health” added McMonnies. 

ENDS 
 
For more information on avian influenza and the current response visit www.agriculture.gov.au/campaigns/birdflu#h5_detection

Media enquiries 

Kelly Seagrave, Australian Eggs 
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