About H5 bird flu
H5 bird flu (high pathogenicity H5N1 avian influenza) is a viral disease that primarily affects birds.
The H5N1 strain circulating globally is different from some other forms of avian influenza. Overseas, this strain has caused severe disease and high death rates in poultry, wild birds and other wildlife.
Human cases are rare, and the virus does not spread easily between people.
Many species of wild birds have been infected with H5 bird flu overseas, including:
- waterfowl
- seabirds
- birds of prey.
Animals can become infected through contact with infected birds or animals, contaminated environments, or infected animal products.
H5 bird flu has been detected in more than 400 bird species globally, including:
- chickens
- ducks
- geese
- turkeys
- guinea fowl
- quail
- pheasants
- emus
- ostriches.
H5 bird flu has also been detected in more than 60 mammal species overseas, including:
- marine mammals
- dairy cattle
- pet cats
- goats
- alpacas
- pigs
- horses
- zoo animals
- wildlife.
Signs of H5 bird flu
Some infected birds may not show obvious signs of disease.
Signs vary between species and may include sudden death, respiratory illness, neurological signs and reduced egg production in poultry.
For detailed information about signs of disease and when to report concerns, see:
See the NSW H5 bird flu landing page for links on wildlife, human health and more.
See the Australian Government bird flu page for national information.
How H5 bird flu spreads
Waterfowl are natural hosts of avian influenza viruses and can sometimes carry infection without showing signs of disease.
Bird flu can spread through:
- close contact between infected birds
- bird droppings and contaminated environments
- contaminated equipment, vehicles and clothing
- movement of infected animals.
Migratory birds and marine mammals may also contribute to the spread of H5 bird flu over long distances.
Why it matters for NSW
Since 2021, H5 bird flu has spread across much of the world.
Australia's unique wildlife means the impacts are difficult to predict. Based on overseas experience, some native bird and mammal species could be significantly affected.
How NSW prepares for and responds to H5 bird flu
The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD) leads the response to any detection of H5 bird flu in NSW, working closely with the Australian Government, other jurisdictions, industry and wildlife organisations.
Australia has well-established national arrangements to detect, manage and respond to animal disease emergencies, including H5 bird flu. As the combat agency for animal biosecurity emergencies in NSW, NSW DPIRD follows established response arrangements.
Preparedness activities
The NSW Government continues to strengthen preparedness through:
- disease surveillance in wild birds and animals
- laboratory testing and diagnostic services
- biosecurity planning and response coordination
- training for field staff and veterinarians
- community and industry awareness activities
- preparedness planning for high-risk wildlife species and important natural places.
The NSW Government is also working with local government, wildlife organisations and First Nations communities to help reduce potential impacts on animals, people and ecosystems.
For current information about detections and response activities, visit the Bird flu (avian influenza) page. There you can also find specialised information on wildlife, livestock, captive birds and for government agencies, First Nations communities, farmers, vets and the general public.
Disease surveillance
Public reporting plays an important role in early detection.
Experience overseas has shown that H5 bird flu is often first detected when people report sick or dead birds and other wildlife.
Industry, governments and research organisations work together to:
- monitor avian influenza viruses
- investigate disease events in birds and other animals
- identify emerging risks
- improve preparedness.
See the NSW H5 bird flu landing page for links on wildlife, human health and more.
See the Australian Government H5 bird flu page for national information.
National surveillance programs
Wildlife Health Australia coordinates the National Avian Influenza Wild Bird Surveillance Program.
The program supports:
- testing of wild birds
- investigation of unusual bird deaths
- national surveillance activities.
NSW contributes through:
- disease monitoring
- laboratory testing
- preparedness planning.
The NSW Government continues to work with the Australian Government and other jurisdictions to ensure preparedness activities are nationally coordinated and consistent.
Advice for poultry producers
Human health impacts
The risk to people in Australia remains low. Human infection is rare and most often occurs after close contact with infected birds, animals or contaminated environments.
Bird flu is not a food safety risk for chicken meat or eggs when they are handled and cooked correctly.
See NSW Health for details: