02/09/2026
🐦 H5 BIRD FLU: WHAT OUR COMMUNITY NEEDS TO KNOW
H5N1 bird flu has been detected in wild birds in Victoria. We are continuing to see pet and aviary birds at Mt Eliza Village Vet, but we have introduced additional precautions for all avian consultations.
☎️ NEW AVIAN CONSULT PROTOCOL
If your bird needs veterinary attention:
• Contact the clinic before attending
• Tell reception about any illness, unusual signs or recent deaths
• Do not enter the clinic carrying a bird until you have spoken with reception
• Follow the team’s instructions about where to wait and how your bird will be examined
These precautions help protect our staff, clients, other pets and the wider community.
SIGNS TO WATCH FOR IN PET BIRDS AND POULTRY
Neurological signs:
• Unable to stand or fly
• Incoordination, circling or tremors
• Twisted neck or abnormal head posture
• Paralysis or seizures
Respiratory signs:
• Breathing difficulty or panting
• Coughing or sneezing
• Swelling around the head, neck or eyes
Other signs:
• Depression, closed eyes or ruffled feathers
• Diarrhoea
• Sudden or unexplained death
If you notice any of these signs, isolate the affected bird from other birds where possible, avoid unnecessary handling and contact us before travelling to the clinic.
For sick or dead wild birds, do not touch or collect them. Keep children and pets away, record what you see and report it through Agriculture Victoria.
📞 Emergency Animal Disease Hotline:
1800 675 888
🌐 agriculture.vic.gov.au/reportdeadbirds
Mt Eliza Village Vet 🐾
