H5 Bird Flu in Australia: What Queensland Pet Owners Need to Know

You may have seen recent news reports about H5 bird flu (avian influenza) being detected in parts of Australia. While there are currently no confirmed cases in Queensland, authorities continue to closely monitor the situation.

At Vet Cross, we're staying up to date with the latest advice from Australian biosecurity authorities to help keep our patients, clients and community informed. Here's what Queensland pet owners need to know.

H5 bird flu is a highly pathogenic strain of avian influenza that primarily affects wild birds and poultry. It has been detected in migratory birds, sea birds, waterbirds, shorebirds, and birds of prey, as well as poultry such as chickens and turkeys.

Although the virus mainly affects birds, it has also been detected in some mammals overseas. Human infections are rare and are usually associated with close contact with infected birds. There is currently no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission, and the risk to the general public remains low.

Dogs and cats can become infected, although this is considered uncommon. To date, there have been no reported cases in Australian dogs or cats.

As a precaution, we recommend that you:

• Don't allow your pets to investigate or handle sick or dead birds.
• Keep dogs on a lead around large numbers of waterbirds where practical.
• Don't feed raw wild birds to your pets.
• Contact your veterinarian if you are concerned your pet has had close contact with a sick or dead bird.

The advice is simple:

Avoid. Record. Report.

AVOID
Do not touch or pick up sick or dead birds. Keep children and pets away from them.

RECORD
Take note of the location and, if it is safe to do so, take a photo. This information can assist authorities.

REPORT
Report sick or dead birds - particularly if you find five or more - to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

If you've handled a sick or dead bird:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Wash any clothing that may have come into contact with the bird.
• Monitor yourself for signs of illness.
• Seek medical advice if you become unwell.

If your pet has had close contact with a sick or dead bird, please call Vet Cross before bringing them into the clinic.

Our team can advise you on the safest next steps and determine whether your pet needs to be examined. Calling ahead also allows us to prepare appropriately if required.

No. There is no need to avoid walking your dog or visiting your usual parks.

Simply take sensible precautions by keeping your dog away from sick or dead birds and discouraging them from chasing or picking up wild birds. If you regularly walk your dog in areas where waterbirds gather - such as beaches, rivers, creeks, wetlands or parks - keep them on a lead where practical and discourage them from chasing or picking up birds.

Yes. Bird watching and enjoying local wildlife remains safe.

If you have bird feeders at home:

• Avoid handling sick or dead birds.
• Clean bird feeders regularly.
• Wash your hands after handling feeders or coming into contact with wild birds.

Our veterinary team is closely monitoring the situation and following current biosecurity recommendations.

We have protocols in place to safely assess suspected cases while protecting our patients, clients and staff. If you are concerned about a sick bird or believe your pet may have been exposed, please contact our team for advice before visiting the clinic.

Advice may change as more information becomes available. Vet Cross will continue to monitor updates from Australian biosecurity and public health authorities and provide our clients with reliable, evidence-based information.