Industry says H5 Bird Flu risk remains low for Dairy

Australia's dairy industry says the risk of H5 avian influenza to dairy cattle remains low, with no detections of the virus recorded in Australian livestock.

Dairy Australia says the H5 genotype of the 2.3.4.4b strain associated with dairy cattle outbreaks in the United States has not been detected in Australia.

The organisation says the current risk assessment is consistent with a recent assessment commissioned by the Australian Government and Dairy Australia, who are continuing to work with government, industry and animal health authorities to monitor the situation, bringing together other industry groups including Australian Dairy Farmers and the Australian Dairy Products Federation.

The group is coordinating information sharing and supporting industry preparedness, while farmers are being encouraged to maintain biosecurity measures and remain vigilant for signs of illness in livestock and wildlife.

Producers are reminded to report any sick or dead birds, or unusual symptoms in their herds, through the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.