Avian influenza: Signs and how to report

Surveillance

In addition to its regular wild bird surveillance, Australia has been carrying out increased surveillance for migratory wild birds since the threat of H5 bird flu emerged.

For further information on the National Avian Influenza Wild Bird Surveillance Program, see Wildlife Health Australia, Wild Bird Surveillance.

Signs of H5 bird flu

The signs of H5 bird flu can vary between different species. The signs can include:

Wild birds

• can’t stand, walk, or fly properly
• droopy or puffed-up appearance
• breathing problems (panting or sneezing)
• unusual head or neck posture
• sudden death (especially in large numbers).

Mammals

• weakness or tiredness
• trouble walking or breathing
• seizures, tremors or walking in circles
• drooling or runny nose
• sudden illness or death.

Poultry

• sudden death
• lethargy or reluctance to walk, eat or drink
• droopy appearance or ruffled feathers
• head or limb swelling
• bruising (purple discolouration) of the wattle, comb, feet or skin
• respiratory signs such as panting, nasal discharge or sneezing
• diarrhoea
• unusual head or neck posture, lack of coordination, inability to walk or stand.

Be aware that a number of strains of avian influenza can affect poultry, not just H5 bird flu. See the DPIRD avian influenza webpage for information on other strains of avian influenza in poultry.

What to do if you find sick or dead birds or other animals

Avoid – Sick and dead birds and other animals can carry diseases, including H5 bird flu, that can affect humans. It is recommended to avoid contact with wildlife that are sick or have died unexpectedly unless you have appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and the risk of leaving the birds/animals in place outweighs the risk of spreading infection by moving them. International experience shows that most affected wildlife will not recover, so it is usually best not to move affected animals and stress them further unless they pose a public health risk. Make sure you keep children and pets away from sick or dead birds or other wildlife.

Record – If you see sick or dead wild birds or other wildlife, note the number of dead, species, location, date and time.

Report – Reporting signs of H5 bird flu is important to enable early detection and to monitor and raise awareness of any disease spread. Under WA’s Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007, any strain of avian influenza, including H5 bird flu, is a reportable disease and anyone who suspects the disease is present must report it.