15/07/2026
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Bird Flu (H5N1) - Avian Influenza Update โ
You may have seen the news - H5N1 bird flu has now been confirmed in NSW. It's part of a wider pattern of detections across Australia this year. The good news: there's no evidence of spread to poultry or backyard flocks, and the risk to people remains low. But it's a good time for all of us - especially bird owners - to stay informed.
We're still here to help wildlife. We'll continue to assess sick or injured wild birds and animals as normal - just please call ahead first so our team can take the right precautions before you arrive.
If you find a sick or dead wild bird:
๐ซ Don't touch or approach it
๐ Note the location (and a photo if it's safe to take one)
๐ Report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline: 1800 675 888
If you have pet birds or backyard chickens, watch for:
โข Sudden death
โข Lethargy or loss of appetite
โข Breathing difficulty
โข Tremors, stumbling, or seizures
โข Vomiting or diarrhoea
โข Swelling around the head or reduced egg production
If your bird seems unwell, please call us before coming in. This lets us prepare properly so we can keep your pet, our other patients, and our team safe.
Good hygiene and keeping pet birds away from wild birds where possible go a long way. As always, we're here if you have questions - just give us a call. ๐พ
