H5 BIRD FLU DETECTED IN VICTORIAN FUR SEALS

H5 bird flu has been detected in two fur seals in Victoria, following surveillance and reports from members of the public.

A deceased long-nosed fur seal found on Gabo Island and an Australian fur seal at Rye Back Beach on the Mornington Peninsula both tested positive for the virus.

Victoria’s Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action is continuing surveillance with wildlife health experts, Parks Victoria and other agencies to better understand the virus in wildlife populations.

People are being reminded to stay at least 30 metres away from marine mammals that appear unwell, and to keep children and pets away from affected animals.

The department says people should not touch, handle or move sick, injured or dead wildlife, or disturb groups of seals resting on beaches or rocks.

Anyone who sees sick or dead wildlife can report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 or through the Agriculture Victoria website.