H5N1 Avian Influenza, or bird flu, has been detected for the first time in Australia and Victoria as of June.
The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) have not confirmed any bird flu detections in the Frankston municipality, however there are currently reported potential cases awaiting testing. Presently there have been confirmed cases in Greater Crested Terns and Silver Gulls (Seagulls) on the Mornington Peninsula, Phillip Island and in the City of Casey.
DEECA is leading the Victoria-wide response to H5N1, with other departments such as Agriculture Victoria and Health Victoria, and local councils working closely to support our wildlife, poultry industry and health systems. Frankston City Council is receiving regular updates from DEECA who are providing advice and guidelines for best practise in managing this outbreak in the safest and most humane way possible.
While there is no need for alarm, we encourage residents and visitors to stay informed and aware of official advice from DEECA. It is important to note that the risk to public health remains low.
For updates, information, reporting and public health advice please see the below websites:
To help keep your backyard chooks safe, start with these simple steps:
- Keep feed and water away from wild birds
- Keep your birds away from dams, ponds and wild bird areas
- Use netting, roofing or fencing where practical
- Wear clean boots and clothes when entering poultry areas
If you notice something unusual in any pets or poultry, talk to your local vet or call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
For the most up-to-date information on the current situation regarding the poultry industry, please see the below website:
What are the current requirements for the poultry industry?
Victoria’s Chief Veterinary Officer has announced the lifting of the temporary mandatory poultry confinement requirement, effective from the 16 October. This precautionary and temporary requirement was introduced to reduce contact between poultry and wild birds while producers strengthened their on-farm biosecurity arrangements in response to the detection of H5 bird flu in wild birds. The housing requirements were mandatory for flocks of 50 or more poultry.
Forecast hotter than average summer temperatures, together with animal welfare considerations support ending the temporary requirements.
To view the Agriculture Victoria media release regarding this change, see: Biosecurity remains essential as temporary poultry confinement requirement ends
See the below for current advice for other industries that may be impacted by H5N1:
- Veterinarians, wildlife rehabilitators and foster carers:
- Health sector:
- Land Managers: