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Avian influenza (Bird flu) 

Last updated JULY 2024

This article is written by Pet Circle veterinarian, Dr Olivia Clarke BSc BVMS MANZCVS (Unusual Pets, Avian)

There is currently a global spread of avian influenza. Strains of avian influenza have been identified in Victoria, NSW and ACT in Australia. 

What is avian influenza? 

Avian influenza or 'bird flu' is a virus that has the ability to cause widespread, catastrophic mortalities to wild birds, domestic birds and non-avian species. This virus circulates in flocks of wild migratory birds with low pathogenicity - this means it causes mild or no disease, kind of like a mild cold. This low pathogenic form of the virus, low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) can be transmitted from wild birds to domestic birds, particularly poultry flocks, where it can then mutate to become highly pathogenic causing serious disease and death. This is known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and is responsible for the current outbreaks. 

Who is at risk? 

All species of birds can become infected with avian influenza including pet birds. However wild birds and birds that are outdoors and/or come into contact with wild birds either directly or indirectly via food and water sources are most at risk. Chickens, waterfowl and aviary birds are at much higher risk than indoor pet birds that do not interact with other birds. 

How is avian influenza transmitted? 

The main mode of transmission is via the faeco-oral route. This means that virus particles are shed in the  droppings of infected birds  and are then ingested by other birds, often through contaminated food and water sources. The virus can also be transmitted by direct contact and through fomites. Fomites refers to the virus being carried on surfaces like clothing, shoes and equipment. 

 

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What are the clinical signs of avian influenza in bird?

The most classic signs are respiratory signs including:

  • nasal discharge
  • ocular (eye) discharge
  • swelling around the eyes (sinus infection)
  • difficulty breathing (dyspnoea)
  • Blue or purple discolouration to wattles or comb (cyanosis) 

Neurological signs:

  • Twisted neck (torticollis)
  • wobbliness/off balance (ataxia)
  • Tremors
  • Seizures

Gastrointestinal signs:

  • Diarrhoea
  • Vomiting 

Non-specific signs:

  • Sudden death 
  • Reduced egg production 
  • Lethargy
  • Reduced appetite
  • Fluffed up
  • Closing eyes 
  • Watery droppings (polyuria) 

 

How can I protect my birds from avian influenza? 

Keep birds indoors and prevent access to wildlife. This includes preventing wild bird access to food and water bowls and any other equipment that may be used by your birds. Do not transport birds or let your birds interact with other birds. If you are located in a restricted area then you will need to contact the Emergency Animal Disease (EAD) hotline to obtain a permit from the government if you need to transport your bird for emergency reasons. You should avoid contact with unfamiliar and wild birds and ensure you wash your hands well before handling your birds after you have been out. 

If you are unable to bring your birds inside then it is important that you take as many precautions as possible to prevent exposure to wildlife. Keep birds contained and do not allow them to venture into areas where wild birds inhabit. Ensure the aviary or enclosure has a secure, enclosed roof so that wild birds and their droppings cannot enter the cage. Ensure wild birds cannot access water or food bowls or food storage. Strict biosecurity practices are extremely important. This includes thorough and regular sanitation of all equipment with disinfectant such as F10

What do I do if my bird gets sick?

If your bird becomes sick you will need to visit your veterinarian, however you should call the vet clinic prior to arrival and they will conduct a risk assessment and advise you on what to do. You may be asked to wait in the car and your vet may need to test your bird for avian flu. If you are located in a restricted emergency zone then you must contact the EAD hotline for further advice on what to do. 

Vet clinics that see domestic birds are not advised to see wild or stray birds at this time and need to take special precautions when seeing sick pet birds including testing for avian influenza, using personal protective equipment (PPE) and housing sick birds in isolation wards. Please call your vet ahead of time if you need to bring in a sick bird. During this outbreak it is recommended that stray birds and wild birds are taken to general practice vets that do not routinely see birds, shelter and wildlife hospitals. 

It is important to be aware that avian influenza is a notifiable disease in Australia. This means that if there is a suspected or confirmed case that the government must be notified. 

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Can my other pets get avian influenza? 

At this stage the strains present in Australia have not been identified in other species and the risk is considered low but avian influenza, like many viruses, has the ability to mutate and jump to other animal species. You should avoid letting your dogs, cats and other pets from interacting with wild and unfamiliar birds. 

Can I get avian influenza?

There are several strains of avian influenza, some of which are infectious to humans and can be transmitted between humans. The strains present in Australia currently are considered to be low risk for transmission to humans but even though the risk is low it is still possible so it is important for everyone, especially those in contact with birds take the necessary precautions to protect themselves including proper hand washing and strict biosecurity measures. For more information on biosecurity recommendations you can visit the links below. 

Is there a vaccine? 

There is no vaccine available for domestic birds in Australia at this time. Restricting movement of birds and strong biosecurity practices are key to containing the virus and preventing widespread dissemination in domestic birds. 

 

Where can I find more information?

See the following website links for more information on avian influenza from the Australian government. 

 

Emergency Animal Disease (EAD) hotline: ph 1800 675 888