Second H5 bird flu case confirmed in NSW

 New South Wales has confirmed a second case of H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza in a wild migratory seabird, with a Giant Petrel found at Bennetts Beach near Hawks Nest testing positive.

Authorities say the detection comes through the state's enhanced surveillance program, with no evidence of widespread bird deaths and no cases recorded in commercial poultry, native birds or other animals in New South Wales.

The State Coordination Centre has been operating since June as surveillance continues across the state, with officials stressing the risk to human health remains low.

Producers and members of the public are being reminded not to handle sick or dead birds and to report any suspected cases to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888, with further information available at birdflu.gov.au.