High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI)

 

 

General Information

A new strain of High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (also known as bird flu) is affecting birds and mammals, both wild and domestic, across the world. This strain is NOT currently in Australia or New Zealand but may enter these countries through migratory and non-migratory wild bird movements.

ZAA is endeavoring to prepare our member zoos and aquariums for the possibility of the virus' introduction into the region. We are working with government bodies, veterinarians and other experts to prepare biosecurity plans for zoos, aquariums and wildlife hospitals.  This includes government funding that is outlined here.

What is Avian Influenza?

Avian influenza (AI), also known as bird flu, is a viral disease caused by the influenza A virus. There are many different strains of AI, which are categorised as either low pathogenicity (LPAI) or high pathogenicity (HPAI) depending on the potential severity of disease caused in poultry.

LPAI naturally occurs in wild birds in Australia and New Zealand, notably waterbirds (ducks, geese and swans) and shorebirds, and typically do not cause severe disease.

A wide range of bird species can be infected with HPAI, including waterbirds, poultry and migratory birds. A wide range of mammals can also be affected, particularly marine mammals and species that predate or scavenge on bird carcasses. Although avian influenza viruses do not normally infect humans, some subtypes have been associated with disease in humans ranging from mild illness to severe disease.

Why is this a concern?

Since 2021, a new strain of HPAI has caused significant illness and deaths in poultry, wild birds and wild mammals in all geographic regions except Oceania (including Australia and New Zealand).

The emergence of this strain is associated with a significant increase in the frequency and geographic range of HPAI outbreaks in both wild birds and poultry overseas. Mortalities have been observed in a wide range of bird and mammal species, seen as individual animal deaths and mass mortalities.

Are Australia and New Zealand at risk?

HPAI strain 2.3.4.4b has NOT been detected in Australia or New Zealand in any species.

However, the emergence of the strain overseas means an increased risk to Australia and New Zealand, due to the increase in the likelihood of entry via wild bird movements, and increased consequences if it were to enter. 

 

What can I do to reduce the risk of HPAI?

  

There is no way to prevent HPAI entering Australia/New Zealand through movements of wild birds. However, work is underway to increase the chances of detecting any outbreaks early and preparing to respond if outbreaks occur.

HPAI is a nationally notifiable animal disease, meaning that anyone who suspects an animal might be infected with HPAI has a legal responsibility to report it.

Report unusual signs of disease or mass deaths in wildlife to:

Australia

New Zealand Aotearoa
  • The 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888

  • The Department of Primary Industries or Agriculture in the State/Territory in which the event has occurred

  • Your local State/Territory Wildlife Health Australia Coordinator

  • Your local veterinarian
  • Biosecurity New Zealand's Exotic Pest and Disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66

  • The Ministry of Primary Industries relevant to your local area

  • Your local veterinarian


What does HPAI look like?

Clinical signs in birds can include:

  • incoordination, tremors, swimming in circles,
  • twisted necks or other abnormal posture,
  • inability to stand or fly,
  • diarrhoea,
  • difficulty breathing, coughing or sneezing,
  • swelling around the head, neck and eyes,
  • cloudiness or change in colour of the eyes, or
  • sudden death, including the potential for mass mortality events.

 

Clinical signs in infected mammals may include:

  • incoordination and tremors,
  • seizures,
  • difficulty breathing,
  • nasal discharge,
  • drooling, or
  • death, including the potential for mass mortality events.