Australia Introduces Bird Flu Vaccines for Native Birds

Australia will vaccinate vulnerable native birds against bird flu, with focus on priority species amid rising infection rates.

Australia is set to commence a vaccination program against avian influenza, specifically targeting vulnerable native bird species and those in captivity. Government officials announced that the rollout would occur in the coming days and weeks, with an initial allocation of AU$2 million worth of vaccines—about 1,500 vials—dedicated to combating the deadly H5N1 strain of the virus.

The nation reported its first case of this highly contagious strain in June, marking it as the last continent to be affected. Since that time, over 230 confirmed cases have been documented. The outbreak recently resulted in its first mass mortality event, with approximately 50 greater crested terns found dead on an island off South Australia’s coast.

Agriculture Minister Julie Collins emphasized that while the program would not prevent the broader spread of the virus, it aims to protect those species most at risk. She noted that the risk to humans remains low and that there is currently no evidence of impact on the poultry or agriculture sectors from this outbreak.

Collins stated, “We can take action to protect the species most at risk,” as she discussed the logistical implementation of vaccinations. The initial doses are expected to commence shortly, following a national approach for vaccinating priority native bird species, especially those highlighted in a recent risk assessment.

Moreover, Environment Minister Murray Watt indicated that each bird will require two doses of the vaccine, referring to the outbreak situation as a “serious event.” Earlier this month, the government evaluated the risk levels of bird flu for more than 2,000 native birds and mammals, identifying some species at possible risk of extinction due to the virus’s impact, while many others are expected to see a “severe reduction” in their populations.