NSW BEGINS TARGETED BIRD FLU VACCINATION PROGRAM

Targeted vaccinations have begun in New South Wales to help protect vulnerable native birds from the threat of H5 avian influenza.

The program includes captive insurance populations and selected wild populations, with Little Penguins at Manly and Barunguba Montague Island among those being considered.

Taronga Conservation Society Australia has vaccinated trial groups of Little Penguins, Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos and Red-tailed Black Cockatoos as part of a two-dose vaccine course.

The second dose will be given three to four weeks after the first, with vaccinated birds closely monitored for any adverse effects.

The NSW Government says vaccination is not a standalone solution, and will be used alongside surveillance, biosecurity, preparedness planning and conservation measures.

The program will also build evidence about the safety and effectiveness of vaccination in threatened bird species, while H5 bird flu has not been detected in commercial poultry flocks or captive birds anywhere in Australia.

People who encounter a suspected sick bird or marine mammal are urged to avoid contact and report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.