Egg industry steps up to the challenge of H5 avian influenza

Australian Eggs is continuing to support State and Commonwealth authorities in surveillance and response efforts after detections of H5 avian influenza (AI) in wild birds across the country.  

The incursion moved into a new phase this week with emerging evidence of some transmission of H5 AI among greater crested terns in South Australia, which are Australian resident seabirds.

“Transmission between Australian wildlife indicates H5 AI is established and is here to stay in the medium term,” said Australian Eggs Managing Director, Rowan McMonnies. “Eradication seems unlikely at this point and the egg industry is facing up to a riskier operating environment for the foreseeable future, added McMonnies”

“We have been anticipating and preparing for this moment for several years and important actions are being taken to address the risks. Strict biosecurity is being maintained with enhanced measures to deter wild birds and limit crossover into egg farms.” 

“The industry has also worked closely with authorities to improve response processes based on overseas learnings so that where farms are impacted, they can bounce back faster, limiting any impact on egg supply.”

“H5 AI has been very destructive overseas but there are good reasons to expect we can limit the impact here. The pathways for wild bird migration are more favourable, we have a broader geographic spread of egg production and we have had longer to prepare than other countries.”

“The next phase is about working hard to realise the benefit of these advantages and well as exploring long term risk mitigations such as the feasibility of HPAI vaccination.”

“For now, 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

Media enquiries

Kelly Seagrave, Australian Eggs

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